The National Assessment Centre PARAKH, established under the National Council for Education and Research Training (NCERT), has recently introduced a Holistic Progress Card (HPC) for secondary school students (classes IX-XII). This initiative aims to align and develop competencies among students by evaluating self-reflection, research skills, entrance exam preparation, and time management. The HPC, developed in alignment with the National Education Policy’s framework, the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE), focuses on fostering holistic development beyond traditional exams.
Empowering Self-Reflection and Career Planning
A key aspect of the HPC is its emphasis on self-reflection and career planning. The card includes sections where students assess their interests and future aspirations, providing insights into their career goals. Questions about envisioning their future and preparing for competitive exams will guide students in evaluating their career paths. Teachers and counsellors will play a crucial role in assisting students with these sections to better align their career goals with their skills and interests.
Integration with Traditional Report Cards
NCERT aims to integrate the HPC with traditional report cards to focus on personality development and intrinsic skills. The secondary stage of the HPC is designed to help students make informed career choices by evaluating their interests and potential. By including sections on vocational courses, career plans, and self-assessment, the HPC supports students in aligning their education with long-term career goals.
Reducing Academic Pressure
PARAKH plans to integrate the HPC into Board exam results to alleviate academic stress and address examination phobia. This integration aims to create a more holistic evaluation system, reducing pressure on students in class X and XII. Details of this equivalence process have been submitted to the Education Ministry, with the goal of merging HPC assessments with Board results to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of students’ abilities and progress.
Training for Successful Implementation
To ensure effective implementation, NCERT will conduct training sessions for teachers, supported by ‘master trainers’ from each educational block. These sessions will equip teachers with the knowledge and skills needed to guide students through the HPC process. Teachers will be trained to use the HPC effectively, enhancing their instructional approaches and providing better support to students facing challenges.
Focus on Vocational Learning and Career Choices
The HPC for secondary students emphasizes vocational learning and career choices. It includes sections for evaluating vocational courses undertaken, professional interests, and career plans. This focus aims to prepare students for the workforce by aligning their education with real-world career opportunities.
Encouraging Research Skills
A distinctive feature of the HPC is its focus on individual research and the learning process. Students will be required to conduct research on topics of their choice, with an emphasis on developing hypotheses and finding evidence. This approach fosters curiosity and enhances students’ research skills, supported by teacher assessments and learner reflections.
Promoting Digital Learning
The HPC also includes components for digital learning, with short-term online courses from platforms like Coursera and MOOCs. Funds from the Samagra Siksha Abhiyan are used to make classrooms smart, but efforts are also made to ensure rural students can access these digital resources. The HPC includes a section for the registration and completion of digital courses, supported by teachers who will assist students in navigating these opportunities.
Overall, the Holistic Progress Card represents a significant step towards a more comprehensive and inclusive evaluation system, addressing both academic and personal development needs of students.
