The Tale of Transformation
In December 2022, a pioneering initiative was launched, marking the inaugural assessment of around 14 million students in grades 1 to 8 nationwide using the innovative Saral App. This approach aimed to evaluate students against 47 learning outcomes across three subjects: Hindi, Mathematics, and Science. Leading this effort, centralized model question papers were meticulously crafted by SCERT, serving as a benchmark for other districts to follow suit in their decentralized question paper preparations. To ensure the smooth execution of this historic assessment, a comprehensive training program was implemented for teachers, ARPs, and other ground staff. Utilizing modern communication channels like YouTube Live sessions and regular communications, including instructional videos, the workforce was equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively navigate the Saral App. Additionally, the State’s NIPUN Bharat Monitoring Centre (NBMC) played a crucial role as an issue resolution center, swiftly addressing challenges encountered on the ground. Despite meticulous planning and concerted efforts, the journey was riddled with challenges. Chief among these obstacles was the significant data loss and the unreliability of captured data. This setback, compounded by the proliferation of decentralized question papers, posed a formidable barrier to evaluating results on the backend, hindering the achievement of intended outcomes in this round of assessments. Undeterred by adversity, the State and its implementation partners remained steadfast in their commitment to success. Undertaking a thorough review of the entire process, problem nodes were meticulously identified through first-principle problem-solving methodologies. Subsequently, a hypotheses-driven issue diagnosis plan and Saral App user testing plan were developed to validate and address the identified challenges. Through extensive root cause analysis, additional hurdles came to light, offering further insight into the complexities of executing large-scale assessments. Armed with newfound knowledge and a steadfast determination to overcome obstacles, the State and its partners forged ahead, reaffirming their unwavering dedication to advancing education through innovation and perseverance.