The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is the third education policy introduced by Government of India on July 29, 2020. NEP 2020 is considered to be a reformative educational policy. It adopts an equitable and holistic education system, accessible to all sets of people.
In this article, I would like to highlight how eight key features of NEP 2020 will resolve the demands of 21st century education.
1. Drastic Reformation in the Curriculum and Pedagogy Structure of School Educational System: NEP 2020 will be launching 5+3+3+4 structure. It will be classified into four divisions, namely foundation education, preparatory education, middle education, and secondary education.
It will an deliver an all-around holistic education, which enables every individual to be competent both in the country and globally.
This curriculum is devised in a way to prevent school dropouts and ensure universal access to high quality education for all. The goal of 100% Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) from pre-school to secondary education will be achieved before 2030.
Pedagogy will be integrated, interactive, flexible, inquiry-based, and practical-oriented in nature. It provides a complete and competency-based education.
2. Transition from Summative Assessment to Formative Assessment: NEP 2020 promotes formative assessment on a timely basis and provide conceptual-based learning. It breaks the existing mark-based system and rote learning.
3. Three-Language Policy with One Language as Optional: Under NEP 2020, no language will be imposed on any State. The medium of instruction will be mother tongue until preparatory course or class 5. Bilingual textbooks will be provided for Mathematics and Science subjects for better understanding. Special emphasis is given on learning Sanskrit or any other classical language as optional.
4. Vocational Skills from Classes 6 to 8: In NEP 2020, a 10-day bagless period will be initiated every year to students from classes 6 to 8 to impart hands-on experience with skillful courses
5. Holistic Progress Card: NEP 2020 introduces a multi-dimensional 360-degree progress card which provides assessment of each student from various aspects including learning capacities, understanding, memory, etc.
6. Low Stake Board Exams for Classes 10 and 12: Under NEP 2020, students of classes 10 and 12 will be able to choose subjects on their individualized interests. Board exams will be redesigned to test core competencies/capacities and application of knowledge.
7. Reformation in Higher Studies: NEP 2020 introduces a multidisciplinary bachelor’s degree of three or four years’ duration with multiple entry and exit options. It provides flexibility in completing courses after a break for any professional and economic needs. Appropriate certifications will be provided after successfully completing each year
8. Adult Education and Lifelong Learning: Digital technology will be leveraged optimally for continuous learning through apps, online courses/modules, digital books, and satellite-based TV channels.
Conclusion:
NEP 2020 is completely an overhauled education system that will meet on par with the global education system of the 21st century. It is recommended to spend 6% of GDP for expenditure on enhancing education in India. It was reiterated on several occasions in the past. Implementation of NEP 2020 will provide an optimal environment and culture of school education and higher education.