The core group responsible for carrying out the review includes the coordinator, Grace Grima; Raymond Camilleri; Saviour Chircop and Frank Ventura. The review group is using various methods to collect information from a wide cross-section of the public.

In fact, one of the methods they are relying on is the internet. The group has launched a website, www.cct.um.edu.mt/matsecreview

Education Minister Louis Galea said the group wanted comments on the operations system of the examinations, their impact on society, quality assurance, the objectives of the examination system as well as on alternative structures and services.

Ms Grima said those who want to give their opinions can fill in the relevant blanks on the website or download the questions and email them to [email protected]. They can also be faxed to 2134-4655 or sent to Matsec review group, c/o Centre for Communication Technology, University of Malta, Msida, MSD06. All comments will be evaluated.

Dr Galea said: “The Matsec review is an important exercise and it is important that all stakeholders have the opportunity to voice their opinions and reflections on crucial issues so changes can be made to existing systems that will improve the quality of educational assessment.”

Answering questions by this newspaper, Dr Grima said it was essential that the public gives its feedback on the issue, especially teachers, students and parents.