Let’s understand the system restructuring introduced by the NEP 2020.

No additional years for students

The 5+3+3+4 system doesn’t add extra school years for students. Rather, it combines preschool and kindergarten education into an integrated structure along with 1st and 2nd standards. This approach emphasizes the importance of early childhood development and lays a strong foundation for future learning.

A unique approach to schooling

The NEP divides school education into the following stages:

• Foundational Stage (Ages 3-8): This 5-year stage is based on play-based learning and language development. It includes preschool, Anganwadis and classes 1st to 3rd. The emphasis is on developing curiosity and building a foundation for students by interactive activities.
• Preparatory Stage (Ages 8-11): This 3-year stage aims at activity-based learning and cognitive development. It includes classes 3rd to 5th. Under this, students learn core subjects while giving importance to interactive learning. The NEP at this stage encourages the use of the mother tongue in schools as the primary medium of instruction for better understanding of students.
• Middle Stage (Ages 11-14): This 3-year stage has been designed to introduce flexibility in learning. Classes 6th to 8th are included under this stage. Students will get a basic understanding of several subjects such as mathematics, science and humanities. Rote learning is replaced by essential learning objectives and critical thinking.
• Secondary Stage (Ages 14-18): This 4-year stage (classes 9th to 12th) emphasizes skill development and critical thinking. The NEP under this stage offers a multidisciplinary approach with a range of subjects for students. They can now choose a combination of subjects that match their interests.

Wider choices for students

The NEP helps students by offering them more choices with the following:

• Subject Selection from Class 9: Students now have an option to choose subjects they are good at. This will help them make informed decisions about higher education.
• Eight Subject Groups: Divided into eight categories (Humanities, Mathematics, Vocational Education, Computing, Physical Education, Arts Education, Social Science and Inter-Disciplinary Subjects etc.), students have a wider range of subjects to choose from.
• Phased Approach in Senior Years: Students of classes 9th and 10th will have subjects including science, social science and humanities. In classes 11th and 12th, students can study specific subjects such as history, physics or languages.

Benefits of 5+3+3+4 system

• Stronger Foundation: Early childhood education becomes a priority to ensure a student’s strong foundation for learning.
• Holistic Development: The focus is beyond academics to ensure social, emotional and physical growth of students.
• Personalized Learning: Students can choose subjects based on their interests which will lead to a better learning experience.
• Improved Career Guidance: The system emphasizes the need for better career counselling to guide students in making informed decisions about their careers.

Hence, the 5+3+3+4 system introduced in the NEP 2020 represents a welcome change in school education. It will equip students with the essential skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the 21st century by aiming at early childhood development, encouraging a holistic learning environment and offering students greater choices.

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