6 Ways Examination and Assessment Reforms are Changing Indian Schools

While we all understand the crucial role education plays in shaping our lives, the Indian education system has faced significant challenges. The Indian government and institutions have been working to reform the existing education model. However, there are still several issues that need to be addressed, including rote learning, evaluation and examination systems, equal respect for all subjects, better training for educators, introduction of technology, personalized education, and teaching the purpose of education, as highlighted by India Today Web Desk.

Examination Reforms in India

National Education Policy (NEP) 2020:

• Holistic Assessment: Emphasizes a shift from rote learning to conceptual understanding. Exams will assess higher-order skills such as analysis, critical thinking, and conceptual clarity.
• Board Exam Reforms: Proposes modular board exams with two opportunities per year to reduce pressure.
• School Exams: Annual exams only in classes 3, 5, and 8, focusing on foundational literacy and numeracy.

What are Examination and Assessment Reforms?

Among the aforementioned issues, examinations and student assessments play a vital role in determining the quality of education. They should not only assess students’ achievements and grades but also measure whether the desired learning outcomes have been achieved. As a result, reforms in the Indian education and assessment system have been considered in the NEP 2020.

What are the Features of National Education Policy 2020?

The NEP 2020 aims to overhaul the Indian education system to make it more inclusive, flexible, and aligned with the needs of the 21st century. Here is a brief overview of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020:

1. Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE)

• Focuses on providing quality early childhood education for children aged 3-6 years through a play-based and activity-driven curriculum.

2. School Education Reforms

• 5+3+3+4 structure: Introduces a new pedagogical structure covering foundational (ages 3-8), preparatory (ages 8-11), middle (ages 11-14), and secondary stages (ages 14-18).
• Holistic Development: Emphasis on critical thinking, inquiry-based, and discussion-based learning rather than rote learning.
• Multilingualism: Promotes learning in the mother tongue/local language up to at least Grade 5.

3. Flexibility in Subjects

• Students can choose subjects across streams (science, arts, commerce) in secondary school, encouraging a multidisciplinary approach.

4. Vocational Education

• Introduces vocational education from Grade 6 onwards with internships, aiming for 50% of students to be exposed to vocational training by 2025.

5. Focus on Foundational Literacy and Numeracy

• A mission to achieve universal foundational literacy and numeracy in primary school by 2025.

6. Inclusive and Equitable Education

• Special focus on disadvantaged groups, including children with disabilities, economically weaker sections, and socio-cultural minorities.

7. Higher Education Reforms

• Multidisciplinary Education: Encourages the establishment of multidisciplinary institutions and flexible curricula.
• National Testing Agency (NTA): Standardized entrance exams for higher education institutions.
• Autonomy for Institutions: Institutions of higher learning to be granted greater autonomy in academic, administrative, and financial matters.

8. Teacher Training and Development

• Continuous professional development for teachers, and stricter criteria for teacher recruitment.
• Teacher education programs to be revamped by 2030.

9. Technology Integration

• Focus on integrating technology in education through online learning, digital content, and the creation of virtual labs.

10. Assessment Reforms

• Shifts from summative to formative assessments that track continuous progress of students.
• Board exams to be made easier, with an emphasis on testing core competencies rather than memorization.

11. National Curriculum Framework (NCF)

• Updated curriculum framework to promote experiential learning, 21st-century skills, and holistic development.

12. Focus on Research and Innovation

• Establishment of the National Research Foundation (NRF) to foster a research culture in higher education institutions.

Features of Examination and Assessment in NEP 2020

The examination and assessment reforms in Indian schools aim to make the education system more comprehensive, equitable, and reduce stress among students. These reforms change the way students are evaluated and measured for progress.

The features of examination and assessment considered for reforms by NEP 2020 are:

• Regular, formative, and competency-based assessments
• Promotion of learning and development of students
• Focus on assessment for learning
• Testing higher-order skills such as analysis, critical thinking, and conceptual clarity
• Assistance in revising continuous teaching-learning processes to optimize learning throughout the schooling system
• Establishment of a new National Assessment Centre called PARAKH (Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development)

Also read: How This School Leader is Promoting Quality Education in a Challenging Locale

Assessment Agenda as Per NEP 2020

1. Introduce new assessment guidelines for each school stage.
2. Use adaptive teaching methods and formative assessments to improve learning.
3. Train teachers to use assessment as a tool for learning, promoting deeper student understanding.
4. Transform report cards into 360-degree evaluations of student progress.
5. Create question banks for competency-based tests to assess higher-order skills.
6. Train experts to design assessments and manage paper setting and evaluation.
7. Develop new evaluation methods for Grades 3, 5, and 8.
8. Assist states and union territories in using AI and IT to track student progress from primary to senior secondary levels.
9. Use technology to reduce the time burden of exams.

Some of the Key Assessment Reforms in India

1. From Report Cards to Progress Cards Traditional report cards will be replaced by 360-degree progress cards that evaluate not only academic performance but also cognitive, emotional, and physical skills. These cards will include feedback from teachers, peers, and self-assessment by students. Parent-teacher collaboration will be key in supporting learning both in and out of the classroom.

2. Revamping Exams Final exams that focus on memorization will be replaced by assessments in Grades 3, 5, and 8 to track progress over time. Board exams (for Grades 10 and 12) will be less stressful, allowing students to take them twice, with the best score being final. These exams will test core skills like problem-solving and critical thinking, with a flexible choice of subjects and levels, such as basic or advanced mathematics.

3. Role of the National Assessment Centre, PARAKH (Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development) will set and oversee the new assessment guidelines. PARAKH has been established as a standard-setting body under the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD). Its objectives include:

• Defining assessment standards, rules, and norms for students
• Overseeing the State Achievement Survey (SAS) and conducting the National Achievement Survey (NAS)
• Tracking the country’s progress towards educational goals
• Facilitating and supporting school boards in aligning their assessment practices with NEP 2020

Additionally, PARAKH will provide guidance to school boards based on the latest research findings and evaluation trends, as well as foster collaboration among the boards.

4. National Testing Agency (NTA) The NTA will develop high-quality, subject-specific tests for undergraduate, graduate, and university admissions. As an independent body, it will ensure assessments are designed to measure aptitude and core competencies effectively.

Advantages of the Assessment Reforms

• Regularly updating the teaching-learning process to focus more on student-centred learning.
• Helping students gain deeper understanding and practical knowledge while developing real-world skills.
• Shifting from memorization to competency-based assessments that value actual knowledge and skills.
• Reducing reliance on high-pressure exams.
• Encouraging teachers to identify students’ specific learning needs and use innovative teaching methods and ongoing assessments.
• Providing students the freedom to choose subjects and levels based on their interests.
• Helping schools improve the quality of education.

Importance of Examination and Assessment Reforms

• Reduces Stress: Moves focus from rote memorisation to conceptual understanding, easing student anxiety.
• Promotes Holistic Development: Evaluates overall student growth, including critical thinking and practical skills
• Encourages Inclusivity: Adapts to diverse learning needs, supporting all students.
• Provides Constructive Feedback: Offers valuable insights for students and teachers to improve learning outcomes.
• Aligns with Global Standards: Prepares students for international academic and professional environments.
• Enhances Competitiveness: Provides students with the necessary skills for higher education and the workforce.
• Promotes Continuous Learning: Encourages regular study habits and lifelong learning.

How Examination Reforms are Changing Traditional Schooling?

Six ways in which examination and assessment reforms are changing Indian schools:

1. Multiple board exams:

The National Education Policy, 2020 has introduced the provision of conducting board exams twice a year. This enables students to improve their performance and reduces the stress of a single-year-end examination.

2. Reduction in curriculum and elimination of rote learning:

The Policy proposes a reduction in the content and load of the school curriculum and emphasizes the elimination and reduction of rote learning. The curriculum is being restructured to allow for more hands-on project-based learning and the development of critical thinking skills.

3. Competency-based learning:

The focus has shifted from marks-based learning to competency-based learning. There is an emphasis on interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary learning, encouraging students to develop a diverse range of skills and apply them creatively.

4. Emphasis on 21st-century skills:

The NEP highlights the importance of practical learning, with a greater emphasis on experiential and hands-on learning, rather than solely relying on theoretical knowledge.

5. Formative and summative assessment:

Schools are adopting a system of both formative and summative assessments, which enable continuous monitoring and evaluation of students’ progress.

Also read: What school leaders can do to change academic outcomes for kids?

6. Technology-based assessments:

There is an increasing use of technology-based assessments such as online testing, e-portfolios, and adaptive testing. These methods make the assessment process more efficient and accurate:

Conclusion

Indian schools are undergoing a transformation to foster a holistic approach to education. These reforms aim to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for success in the modern world. By investing in these reforms and the NEP 2020 initiatives, schools can create a brighter future for their students. Varthana offers funding to support these efforts, empowering schools and women in education.

FAQs

1. What changes have been made to the assessment and examination system under the NEP?

Under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, important changes include introducing holistic assessments focusing on conceptual understanding and critical thinking. Board exams are now modular with two annual opportunities, reducing pressure. School exams occur only in classes 3, 5, and 8 to emphasise foundational learning. Additionally, the policy encourages formative assessments, competency-based learning, and the use of technology in evaluations.

2. How did the examination system reform in India?

Examination reforms in education refer to changes in assessment practices to improve how students’ knowledge and skills are evaluated. These reforms focus on reducing stress, encouraging critical thinking, and promoting holistic development. They include methods like continuous assessment, competency-based evaluation, and integrating technology, aiming to create a more effective, inclusive, and comprehensive education system.

3. What are the changes in the school system in India?

Recent changes in India’s school system include implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasises foundational literacy and numeracy, holistic and multidisciplinary education, and vocational training from an early age. The policy introduces formative assessments, reduces high-stakes exams, and integrates technology in teaching and learning. It also promotes flexible curriculums, experiential learning, and inclusive education to cater to diverse student needs.

4. What are the education reforms in India?

India has embarked on significant education reforms with the National Education Policy 2020, aiming to transform the country into a global knowledge superpower. The policy introduces a new school structure, focusing on foundational literacy and numeracy. It also includes a shift in school management, a new accreditation framework, and the introduction of vocational education from Class 6. These reforms are designed to address challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and low government expenditure on education, aiming to align India’s education system with global standards.

5. What is the new education policy 2024?

The National Education Policy 2024 focuses towards transforming India’s education system. By prioritising foundational literacy, flexible curriculum, vocational education, and technology integration, it seeks to make education more holistic, inclusive, appropriate and relevant to the demands of the 21st century. It is expected that the implementation of NEP 2024 will not only enhance the quality of education but also place India as a global power of knowledge.

6. How to reform the Indian education system?

To reform the Indian education system, focus on encouraging critical thinking, reducing rote learning, and introducing a flexible, multidisciplinary curriculum. Strengthen vocational education, improve teacher training, and integrate technology. Emphasize inclusive, equitable education and update assessments to measure competency rather than memorization. Encourage research and innovation from early stages.

7. What is the process of examination in school?

The school examination process typically involves periodic assessments through written tests, projects, and practicals. These include formative assessments (quizzes, assignments) for continuous evaluation and summative assessments (midterms, final exams) to measure overall learning. Results are based on grading or marks, reflecting a student’s academic performance and progress.

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