When learning any new task I don't believe the goal is to know everything about the task before beginning.  Exam takers go through a class prior to taking the exam to learn the critical elements of the subject.  The exam however, may include specific details not covered in the class.  I don't think exam takers should be expected to memorize an entire book in order to pass an exam.  This is why I believe the exam should be open book.  If someone is not familiar with the material, even if the exam is open book, they are not going to pass.  There simply is not enough time to find the answer to every exam question.

I appreciate the Board seeking comments on the subject of the closed or open book exam.