CBSE Latest News:
In India the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) holds importance. Let us understand the CBSE latest news. It serves as a national board overseeing both private schools catering to students, from kindergarten through grade 12.
In the particular CBSE News, CBSE is considering the possibility of introducing varying difficulty levels for a range of subjects to reduce the burden, on students. While subjects like Maths, English, Sanskrit, Hindi and Urdu already offer levels of difficulty concerns have been raised about maintaining standards if this approach is extended to more subjects.
The news of CBSE, as CBSE gears up to realign the school curriculum in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Which includes transitioning from one language to two in classes XI, XII and requiring three languages in classes IX, X. There is also a contemplation of offering levels of courses for subjects beyond Maths, English, Hindi, Urdu and Sanskrit. The goal is to provide education that caters more to learners by balancing the workload and ensuring fairness among students.
A senior education expert speaking anonymously explains that by introducing level courses the aim is to cater better to each students abilities and interests. Drawing from the guidelines outlined in NEP 2020 Mathematics, for class X already offers two assessment levels – Standard and Basic.
In English students who are academically inclined have the option to choose between Language and Literature as their core subject, which's ideal, for those considering pursuing this field in higher education. Alternatively there is the option of English focusing on equipping students with language skills to understand, acquire and convey ideas effectively. In Sanskrit students can choose between Sanskrit Communicative and Main streams. The latter being more challenging as it encompasses both literature and language studies; a similar structure applies to Hindi and Urdu courses well.
Different Subject Level Options
Subjects | Difficulty Levels |
Maths | Class 10 - Standard Maths - Basic Maths Class 11 & 12 - Regular Maths - Applied Maths |
English | Class 11 & 12 - English Language & Literature - English Communicative |
Sanskrit Hindi Urdu | Class 11 & 12 - Main - Communicative |
Regarding steps
As per the CBSE Updates, The CBSE board is currently awaiting the release of textbooks and curriculum guidelines by NCERT that align with the NEP 2020 and NCF SE 2023 directives. Once these are available decisions will be made on introducing levels of courses for other subjects too. Collaboration among NCERT, SCERT and CBSE will be crucial for implementation; this process requires time to cater to the learning needs of students from various backgrounds. The education expert emphasizes that such changes involving course combinations should not overwhelm or confuse students as they can have a lasting impact, on their educational journey.
Since each student is unique, with goals the option of choosing Applied Mathematics as an elective of regular Mathematics for students studying Commerce, Arts and Biological Sciences in classes XI and XII was introduced to support their academic performance. This tailored approach aims to enhance their skills in the area and allow them time to focus on their main subjects that will shape their future pathways according to an education expert.
Currently the CBSE has implemented a three language model for class X and a two language model for classes XI and XII in some schools. The upcoming CBSE curriculum, for 2024 25 includes these provisions as noted by the education specialist. By adjusting the difficulty levels of courses it is expected to reduce student stress and create a learning environment.
When it comes to discussing the advantages and disadvantages of making changes, in education Sudha Acharya, who serves as the principal at ITL Public School and chairs the NPSC (National Progressive Schools’ Conference) shares her perspective. She mentions that currently there are two levels of Mathematics offered. The textbooks, syllabus and classroom instruction remain consistent for students in classes IX and X. Students who pursue science typically opt for Standard Maths in classes XI and XII whereas those in commerce and humanities tend to choose Applied Maths.
Acharya elaborates on how schools have options for subjects in classes XI and XII – Core or Communicative English. She points out that introducing two levels for subjects in classes IX and X with textbooks, syllabi and classroom teaching may not be effective because students only encounter varying question papers during board exams; otherwise there isn't much disparity between the two levels.
Previously NCERT had already streamlined the curriculum. Acharya expresses concerns about lowering standards by implementing levels for the subject which could impact the quality of education negatively. Additionally given that CUET doesn't consider class XII board results significantly parents are increasingly turning to schools and coaching centers. They fear that with curriculum rationalization children may not be adequately prepared for exams, within school settings.
Many bright students are choosing to leave school after completing their grade and attend educational institutions. "Our priority should be, on maintaining standards and fostering excellence rather than solely aiming to increase the pass rates " stated Acharya.
Reference Link: CBSE may introduce multiple difficulty levels
Regarding considerations:
Expressing support for the proposed initiative as "thinking and student centric " Shilpika Dass, the vice principal of Lotus Valley International School in Noida highlights the collaborative efforts between CBSE and NCERT in incorporating new language and Mathematics courses into the curriculum. The core objective behind introducing these courses has consistently been to bring a dimension to theoretical concepts emphasizing skill development over rote memorization. Research spanning decades along with insights from education pioneers like Edgar Dale, Abraham Maslow and Howard Gardner has shown that students learn effectively when they apply knowledge in real world contexts. Furthermore to bridge the gap between rigor and vocational needs specialized courses like Applied Mathematics and Communicative English have been strategically designed with a focus on utility, within their respective fields
Das notes that there is a shift, towards focusing on literacy and management in Applied Mathematics well as emphasizing the communicative aspects over the formal structure of language and literature in English within school education. This change reflects an approach to meet the demands of the evolving workforce. Furthermore Das emphasizes the importance of ensuring that educated individuals are equipped for employment opportunities highlighting the significance of aligning school curricula with requirements through new educational programs. While these initiatives have been positively received by students, teachers and parents Das stresses the need for collaboration between schools and higher education institutions to maximize their effectiveness. He advocates for universities to promote acceptance of traditional courses and discourage penalizing students who opt for such paths. According to Das a shift, in mindset is necessary to implement these dual level courses.
Conclusion
The suggested modifications, to the CBSE curriculum emphasizing the provision of difficulty levels and a comprehensive education approach could greatly enhance students learning experiences. At Real Academy we are dedicated, to assisting students in adapting to these alterations and excelling academically. Through our mentorship and assistance your child can flourish in the updated CBSE setting.