CBSE’s Bold Move to Standardize Learning Materials Elevates Quality Education
How NCERT books should be used in school, CBSE issued new guidelines
NCERT Books Mandatory for CBSE Classes 9th to 12th
In a significant step towards enhancing educational standards, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has mandated the exclusive use of NCERT textbooks in affiliated schools. This move, as outlined in the recent guidelines, aims to ensure uniformity in curriculum delivery, bridging disparities between schools and enabling a standardized learning experience for students across India. The directive also curbs the practice of using additional reference books, alleviating students’ pressure and focusing on core content.
The circular from the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) announces significant amendments to Chapter 2, Clause 2.4.7 of the Affiliation Bye-Laws 2018. The key focus is on the prescription and use of textbooks by schools.
This decision aligns with the National Education Policy’s (NEP) vision to create a more inclusive and quality-driven education system. By streamlining resources, the CBSE encourages a focused and in-depth understanding of subjects, reducing reliance on supplementary material, and fostering creativity and critical thinking.
Teachers and school principals are now tasked with strictly adhering to these guidelines, promoting a cohesive teaching strategy across institutions. The introduction of NCERT books is expected to reduce the financial burden on parents, as NCERT books are often more affordable than alternative textbooks. Furthermore, the emphasis on using only NCERT books can significantly contribute to reducing the commercialization of education, which has been a long-standing concern.
Incorporating NCERT materials across all grades ensures a curriculum that is not only standardized but also regularly updated to reflect contemporary issues and global trends. This move benefits both students and educators by focusing on content that is comprehensive yet accessible, streamlining the teaching process.
As educators, school leaders must guide this transition smoothly, ensuring that both teachers and students are adequately prepared. Workshops and training sessions can be organized to familiarize the teaching staff with NCERT books, ensuring effective classroom implementation. Moreover, educators can leverage digital platforms that complement the NCERT curriculum, providing students with diverse learning opportunities.
By championing this shift, CBSE is laying the groundwork for a more equitable education system that prioritizes quality and consistency. The implementation of these guidelines could transform the learning experience, nurturing a generation of well-rounded students equipped to meet future challenges.
Please click for a copy of the circular.
The circular emphasizes the responsibility of schools in selecting and reviewing supplementary material, digital content, and books from private publishers. Schools must ensure that no objectionable content is included that could harm the sentiments of any community, gender, or religious group. Schools are also required to upload the list of prescribed books on their websites, along with a written declaration signed by the school’s Manager and Principal, affirming their review of the content. If a school is found to be prescribing books with objectionable content, the responsibility lies with the school, and CBSE will take appropriate action.
This move by CBSE aims to standardize and improve the quality of education across affiliated schools, promoting the use of quality materials and safeguarding the sentiments of all communities. SIt is important for schools to adhere to these guidelines in order to improve educational methods and guarantee that learning materials are inclusive for all students.