Re-evaluating Authenticity in a Pharmacology Assessment: Lessons from Timed Remote Open-Book Examinations in the Digital Era.

Re-evaluating Authenticity in a Pharmacology Assessment: Lessons from Timed Remote Open-Book Examinations in the Digital Era. | Authorea try { document.documentElement.classList.add('js'); } catch (e) { } var _gaq = _gaq || []; _gaq.push(['_setAccount', 'G-8VDV14Y67G']); _gaq.push(['_trackPageview']); (function() { var ga = document.createElement('script'); ga.type = 'text/javascript'; ga.async = true; ga.src = ('https:' == document.location.protocol ? 'https://ssl' : 'http://www') + '.google-analytics.com/ga.js'; var s = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(ga, s); })(); Skip to main content Preprints Collections Wiley Open Research IET Open Research Ecological Society of Japan All Collections About About Authorea FAQs Contact Us Quick Search anywhere Search for preprint articles, keywords, etc. Search Search ADVANCED SEARCH SCROLL This is a preprint and has not been peer reviewed. Data may be preliminary. 1 July 2025 V1 Latest version Share on Re-evaluating Authenticity in a Pharmacology Assessment: Lessons from Timed Remote Open-Book Examinations in the Digital Era. Author : Fouzia Khan 0009-0006-9352-0727 [email protected] Authors Info & Affiliations https://doi.org/10.22541/au.175135165.52883312/v1 209 views 142 downloads Contents Abstract Supplementary Material Information & Authors Metrics & Citations View Options References Figures Tables Media Share Abstract The abrupt global shift to Timed Remote Open-Book Assessments (TROAs) during the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a critical re-evaluation of assessment authenticity in higher education, particularly within specialised fields such as pharmacology. Traditionally, assessment functioned primarily as a summative tool, driving learning through the high stakes of invigilated examination. However, modern approaches embrace ’assessment for’ and ’as’ learning, where design and practice profoundly shape student engagement and educational outcomes. This case study critically examines the implementation of TROAs within a postgraduate pharmacology module at Imperial College London, assessing whether such formats genuinely foster authentic learning. The adoption to TROAs brought both pedagogical and logistical challenges, including concerns around academic integrity, increased student anxiety due to technological issues, and limitations inherent in digital platforms such as Blackboard. Nonetheless, the shift also presented key opportunities for innovation. The use of unpublished datasets and the alignment of questions with Bloom’s higher-order cognitive skills helped preserve academic rigour and relevance. Quantitative data showed that student marks remained stable across years, while qualitative feedback highlighted both the benefits of open-book authenticity and the stress induced by technological unpredictability. This article highlights the need for inclusive and adaptable digital assessments, supported by formative preparation and robust technical systems. As AI and LLMs increasingly shape our education, future assessments must not only prevent misuse but also prepare students to critically engage with these tools. Ultimately, well-designed digital assessments are crucial for developing authentic, real-world analytical skills in this evolving landscape. Supplementary Material File (bjp - review article.docx) Download 52.16 KB Information & Authors Information Version history V1 Version 1 01 July 2025 Copyright This work is licensed under a Non Exclusive No Reuse License. Authors Affiliations Fouzia Khan 0009-0006-9352-0727 [email protected] Imperial College London View all articles by this author Metrics & Citations Metrics Article Usage 209 views 142 downloads .FvxKWukQNSOunydq8rnd { width: 100px; } Citations Download citation Fouzia Khan. Re-evaluating Authenticity in a Pharmacology Assessment: Lessons from Timed Remote Open-Book Examinations in the Digital Era.. Authorea . 01 July 2025. DOI: https://doi.org/10.22541/au.175135165.52883312/v1 If you have the appropriate software installed, you can download article citation data to the citation manager of your choice. Simply select your manager software from the list below and click Download. For more information or tips please see 'Downloading to a citation manager' in the Help menu . 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