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There was concern raised by some Committee members that E-Testing was a potential
challenge for teachers. Members were generally apprehensive about the introduction of E-
Testing.

4. CCSLC

There was extensive discussion on the CCSLC. Some members expressed the view that the
CCSLC was impacting on the sciences resulting in perceived competition for instructional
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time with CSEC. There was a suggestion that the CCSLC should start in the 3 form and
only four lessons should be given in fourth form. However, members were informed that
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schools already offered the CCSLC from 3 Form.

Some members suggested that it should be mandatory in all schools, and that more should be
done to the quality of the subjects to allow the students to move forward smoothly.

The Chairman informed the Committee that the CCSLC is a foundation certificate that caters
to all students. Implementation had already started in some schools. The chairman indicated
that there is a national policy decision that all public schools should implement the CCSLC.
However, some committee members were of the view that many children are not turning up
for the examinations because their parents are preventing them from taking the exams.

In light of this development, the committee was informed that CXC had made a commitment
to assist with the Public Relations associated with the CCSLC. One member queried whether
the CCLSC was optional for private schools. The chairman stated that he would check on the
policy as it relates to private schools.

5. CXC SBA Policy

There was general discussion on the new CXC SBA Policy which encourages the preparation
and submission of group SBAs. The Committee was reminded that the new SBA policy was
previously endorsed by the National Committee at its last meeting. However, some members
expressed the view that there were some areas that needed clarification.

The members felt that facilitating group work across the Board would have to be looked at
and that while it might be essential to have SBA’s in subjects such as Geography and Social
Studies, it should not be forced into other subject areas since it becomes a burden for the
teachers who are responsible for those other subject areas.

Concern was raised by some members regarding the introduction of SBA’s for English and
Mathematics. It was felt by some members that with the English and Mathematics Group
SBA’s there was a possibility that some students would work very hard and others do nothing
and would receive the same marks.

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