What’s in News?
A nationwide assessment under the PARAKH National Survey 2024 is scheduled to be held on December 4, 2024, to evaluate the comprehension levels of students and the quality of education across India. The assessment will focus on students in Classes III, VI, and IX from selected schools.In preparation for the survey, Himachal Pradesh has already conducted two mock tests in government schools, with the third mock test planned for November 19, 2024, encompassing both government and private institutions.
What is PARAKH?
PARAKH (Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development) is a flagship initiative under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aimed at standardizing student assessments and fostering a scientific approach to education.
About PARAKH
- Constituent of NCERT: PARAKH operates as a unit of the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT).
- Mandate: It focuses on periodic assessments like the National Achievement Survey (NAS) and State Achievement Surveys.
- Assessment Areas: It emphasizes:
- Large-scale assessments,
- School-based assessments, and
- Examination reforms.
Objectives of PARAKH
- Uniform Norms and Guidelines: Establish comprehensive guidelines for student assessments across all school boards.
- Enhance Assessment Patterns: Promote modern assessment methodologies aligned with 21st-century skills.
- Reduce Evaluation Disparities: Minimize inconsistencies in evaluation practices among various boards.
- Benchmark Assessments: Develop frameworks to move away from rote learning and promote cognitive skill-building, aligned with NEP 2020.
Significance of PARAKH
- Uniform College Admission Standards: Reduces disparities in college admissions caused by differing board evaluation standards.
- Innovative Evaluations: Introduces technical standards for designing, conducting, and analyzing assessments.
- Holistic Approach: Encourages inclusive and participatory education reforms through field experiences and stakeholder feedback.
- Progressive Education Shift: Advances towards a scientific, ability-based approach to learning.
Key Activities Under PARAKH
1. Capacity Development in Competency-Based Assessment
- Project Vidyasagar: Workshops for educators to adapt to pedagogical changes under the National Curriculum Framework 2023 (NCF 2023).
- Focus: Bridge gaps in implementing competency-based teaching and learning.
2. Large-Scale Achievement Survey
- Mandated to monitor the country’s educational landscape periodically.
- State Educational Achievement Survey (2023): Conducted in 30 states/UTs, assessing 8.5 million students for foundational literacy, numeracy, language, and mathematics competencies.
3. Equivalence of School Boards
- Goal: Achieve parity across school boards in terms of curriculum, assessment, and infrastructure.
- Initiatives:
- Regional workshops (June–August 2023) collected data on board practices.
- National workshops (November–December 2023) prepared policy recommendations.
4. Holistic Progress Cards (HPC)
- Development of 360-degree Holistic Progress Cards for different stages: foundational, preparatory, middle, and secondary.
- Aim: Shift to more comprehensive, competency-based evaluations.
About NCERT
The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) was established in 1961 to assist the Indian government in implementing policies for qualitative improvement in school education. It develops curriculum frameworks, textbooks, and teaching methodologies, acting as a key advisor to central and state governments.
Conclusion
The PARAKH initiative signifies a transformative step towards ensuring uniformity, inclusivity, and quality in education assessments across India. By aligning with the objectives of NEP 2020, PARAKH aims to address long-standing disparities and promote a holistic, scientific approach to student evaluation. The nationwide assessment survey on December 4, 2024, is not just a test of students’ knowledge but a litmus test for the country’s education reform efforts.
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