According to media reports, CBSE is planning to make some changes in the examination pattern of class 10 and class 12 from 2020 as part of a revamp that would include changes in the examination schedule for vocational subjects as well as for the main subjects — among other changes.

WHY IS THE CBSE INTRODUCING THESE CHANGES FOR CLASS 10, 12?

Citing MHRD sources, agencies reported that the initiative of this pattern change is being taken to discourage students from rote learning.

The new pattern would test students on their analytical skills and reasoning abilities instead of blind copy pasting of textbook text

The board has also claimed that this step will produce a better result and the academic quality of institutions will be renewed

THE NEW PLAN

Some major changes expected to be introduced in the new CBSE exam pattern 2020 are:

Question papers to be designed to check the problem-solving and analytical thinking of students

Paper pattern to be revamped to include more of short answer-type questions like those ranging from 1 to 5 marks

Vocational course exams to be held in February, and the final board exams to conclude by March “in around 15 days,” as per a senior official.

Following the early wrapping up of boards, the results are likely to be declared earlier than the schedule followed in the current structure.

“This will give evaluators more time to check papers. Results, too, will likely be declared earlier”, the report said.

Under the new plan, there is a vision for putting more emphasis on improved quality of academics in institutions such as teachers, learning outcomes and pedagogy.

Respective state governments (state’s directorates of education/school education departments) would be responsible for evaluating their schools’ working criteria, infrastructure and facilities, and their report will be the guide for CBSE to arrive at a decision.

CBSE’s renewed paper pattern also aims to simplify and shorten the rules of affiliation and renewal for schools.

HAS THE PLAN BEEN APPROVED?

CBSE has submitted this proposal to the ministry for approval

The proposals regarding the examination schedule are “still at the discussion stage,” however, the board is already working toward implementing the changes in question paper by the year 2020.

Reportedly, it will take about three to four months to get finalised

The board is still working on these changes and renewals which will be applicable from 2020 session