UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Option D – objectivity Objectivity in evaluation implies that scores and judgments are based strictly on defined criteria and evidence rather than on personal bias or emotion. When a teacher avoids letting personal likes or dislikes affect grading, the evaluation becomes more impartial and fair. This principle helps ensure that students are assessed on what they have demonstrated, not on who they are or how the teacher feels about them. Thus, the practice described in the stem clearly reflects the principle of objectivity.

Option A:
Validity refers to the extent to which a test measures what it is intended to measure. A valid examination aligns with learning objectives and accurately samples relevant content. Although validity is essential, it speaks to the content and purpose of a test rather than to the freedom from personal bias in awarding marks, so it is not the best completion of the statement.

Option B:
Reliability is concerned with the consistency and stability of test scores over time or across markers. A reliable test gives similar results under similar conditions. While objectivity can contribute to reliability, the behaviours described in the stem relate more directly to fairness of marking than to consistency across occasions.

Option C:
Practicality refers to the feasibility of administering and scoring a test in terms of time, cost and ease. A practical test is easy to use in real classroom conditions. However, practicality does not specifically address the influence of personal likes or dislikes, so it does not capture the ethical dimension mentioned.

Option D:
Objectivity demands that the teacher use clear marking schemes, standardized criteria and observable evidence when assigning marks. By consciously excluding personal preferences, the teacher ensures that every student has an equal chance to be judged fairly. For this reason, objectivity is the correct principle illustrated by the behaviour described in the question.