Embracing the National Credit Framework: A Paradigm Shift in Education Evaluation
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is on the forefront of revolutionising the educational landscape by urging schools to align with the National Credit Framework. This initiative underscores CBSE's commitment to fostering holistic development and equipping students with versatile skill sets.
Introduction to National Credit Framework:
The CBSE has initiated draft guidelines for feedback from affiliated schools, signalling a progressive shift towards the implementation of the National Credit Framework. This framework aims to allocate credits to subjects, thus redefining the traditional assessment paradigm.
Sample Credit Framework Implementation:
CBSE is poised to introduce a new credit framework for Classes 9th to 12th, prompting schools to initiate a sample credit framework for Classes 9th and 11th. Currently, students must pass in five subjects, including two languages and three main subjects (maths, science, and social science). To facilitate the implementation of the credit framework, an additional 150 hours have been allocated for internal assessment in subjects like Physical Education, Health, Art Education, a skill-related subject, and a third language.
Ten Subjects Curriculum:
In the academic session 2024-2025, students in Classes 9th and 10th will engage with ten subjects, encompassing a third language, interdisciplinary studies, physical education and health, art education, and a skill-related subject. Of the three languages, two must be native to India. This overhaul aligns with the National Curriculum Framework's emphasis on Physical Education and Art Education, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience for every student.
Credit Accumulation and Storage:
All credits earned by students will be securely stored in their academic bank within the students' digilockers. The Ministry of Education is working on systems to reconcile credits, particularly for students pursuing education abroad. This integration of credits from school-level to higher education systems aims to streamline assessment and equivalence procedures.
Implementation Strategy:
CBSE urges schools to initiate internal implementation of the credit system, enabling them to familiarise themselves with the guidelines and refine assessment practices. This proactive approach aims to equip teachers with the necessary skills to seamlessly integrate the framework into the educational ecosystem.
Assessment and Equivalence:
Credits earned through various academic endeavours such as project work, peer-learning, self-study, field trips, and activities will be reflected in the marks statement, accompanied by predefined grades. The binary credit allocation system ensures clarity, with students either earning full credits upon passing a subject or receiving nil credits for non-attainment.
Future Outlook:
CBSE encourages teachers to implement the framework for Classes 9th and 11th, paving the way for its extension to Classes 10th and 12th in alignment with the new curriculum releases. This iterative approach underscores CBSE's commitment to fostering educational excellence and adapting to evolving educational landscapes.
In conclusion, the National Credit Framework heralds a transformative era in education evaluation, prioritising holistic development and skill enhancement. Through collaborative efforts between educational stakeholders, CBSE aims to chart a progressive trajectory towards a more inclusive and comprehensive assessment paradigm.
