Why is CBSE changing Class X, XII exam paper pattern? How will it affect the students?

It’s quite ironic that given how much importance we give to the Class X, XII results in one’s portfolio, these are also the exams that are extremely flawed with the poorest structure. There’s a reason why more and more students are getting 99 percent in their board exams these days. They aren’t necessarily genius. They (or their teachers) have managed to identify the exam questions pattern and spend more time in course/chapters that are more likely to come in the exam. It’s more of a trickery than ingenuity and intellect. So, it’s really a commendable move on CBSE’s part to plan to change Class X, XII exam paper pattern since 2020. And again, hopefully, the other boards follow the same path.

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Primarily, their original motive behind this reform is to test students on their analytical skill and not on how good they are at cramming information. It’s about time they understand that in this Google-dominant era, knowing the information isn’t the most important thing. The new exam paper pattern will test students appearing for the board on their critical thinking and problem-solving ability. Also, according to reports, vocational exams will be held in February, the main subject will be scheduled in Marc. And the results will be declared much earlier.

Now, how will this impact students? First, the students whocram information and do not understand the underlying concept will be hard hit. Those who depend on cheating, even they will find it hard to cheat in the examination center. The learning will steer to be much about own ideas and experience instead of what is given in the book and practice guides. Students will rightly be forced to take a holistic approach and be analytical to what they are learning.

However, above students, I think the teachers and tutors will be the hardest hit with the new exam paper pattern. These are the people who have developed a culture of ‘selected learning’ where they see what questions came last two years and then figure out the questions of this year. And sadly, this tactic usually works. So, all these fooleries might finally come to an end.

All being said though, I still believe that just changing the Class X, XII exam paper pattern isn’t sufficient. Indian education system is highly flawed—worse, in fact. And there’s plenty that needs to be fixed. CBSE and other boards must aim to completely redefine the irrelevant school curriculums. All in all though, if that’s what they have planned, it seems like a decent start.

(Courtesy: News Nation)