An exam board has announced plans to introduce a digitally-assessed GCSE in computer science for students beginning their course in 2025. OCR, the exam board, described this as a first for the UK. Jill Duffy, the CEO of OCR, stated that a pilot of digital exams earlier this year had proven their effectiveness. However, schools will still have the option to choose a paper-based assessment if they prefer or do not have the necessary digital infrastructure. Duffy also mentioned that other subjects will eventually offer on-screen assessment, pending regulatory approval by Ofqual. She emphasized the benefits of digital exams, including their alignment with how students learn and their sustainability. The pilot program showed that students appreciated being able to type their answers and see word counts and timers as they progressed. Additionally, digital exams provide greater clarity in the marking process and simulate real industry experiences. Duffy stressed the importance of supporting schools and teachers in implementing world-class digital infrastructure to ensure that every student can benefit from this opportunity. In 2023, 88,350 students took the computer science GCSE, representing a 12% increase from the previous year. The new digitally-assessed GCSE will involve students working in an integrated development environment to accurately assess their digital coding. Professor Simon Peyton Jones, a computer scientist at Epic Games, expressed his delight at OCR’s decision to offer the digital exam, highlighting the authenticity it brings to assessment. Tom Middlehurst from the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) welcomed this move towards digital assessment, as it reduces reliance on paper exams and benefits both students and examiners. Other exam boards, such as Cambridge International and AQA, are also exploring on-screen exams for various subjects. The Department for Education stated that the government is considering the use of digital solutions in education as part of long-term reforms. Ofqual, as the independent regulator of qualifications in England, will review any GCSE or A-level component moving on-screen before its launch.