We all have come across the term NCERT at least once in our lifetime. If not through news and articles, we must know about it from our school textbooks, where we knew NCERT as the publisher of our textbooks. We all have read NCERT books in our school. But what exactly NCERT is? Is it just a publication that publishes textbooks for Indian schools, or is it more than that? And what is its significance in the Indian Education System? All these points are going to be discussed in this article.
NCERT (National Council of Educational Research and Training), is an important institution which pays a crucial role in shaping, improving and developing Indian Education System. This institution was established in 1961, operating under the Ministry of Education, Government of India. Its chief work was to develop and promote a standardized curriculum framework for schools across India.
Developing Curriculum and School Textbooks:
NCERT primarily designs textbooks and instructional materials for various school subjects, while doing so it ensures that they are all aligned with national educational goals and objectives. These textbooks, designed by NCERT are widely adopted by the schools affiliated with different education boards of India, like the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and various specific state boards. By providing a common curriculum throughout the schools of the board, NCERT helps ensure uniformity and consistency in the education system regardless of the school’s background, location, budget etc. Following are some of the key roles that NCERT does in shaping the Indian Education System:
Conducting Research in the Field of Education:
One of the major roles undertaken by the NCERT is to conduct research in the field of education. It conducts extensive research and surveys to identify important things like emerging educational trends, major concerns and challenges, best practices etc. The observation outcomes of these research projects are then used to help us guide in our policy making decisions and hence develop innovative teaching methods and approaches. These research outputs serve as a valuable resource for educators, policymakers and educational institutions to enhance teaching and learning practices in the country.
Developing Educational Resources and Materials:
In addition to creating curriculum and conducting research related to the field of education, NCERT also develops educational resources and materials for teachers and students. It creates and publishes supplementary materials, reference books, teacher’s guides and other resources. All these resources add to the objective of effective teaching and learning. All these materials are designed to cater the diverse needs of learners and provide guidance and support to teachers in delivering quality education.
Teacher Training and Professional Development:
Another significant aspect of NCERTs role in the field of education is its involvement in teacher education and professional development. It conducts various training programs, workshops and seminars for teachers. This helps in enhancing their subject knowledge, pedagogical skills, and classroom practices. All these initiatives aim in improving the quality of teaching provided to students. Apart from that, it also ensures that teachers are equipped with the necessary skills and competencies to deliver effective education.
Development and Promotion of Educational Policies:
NCERT, apart from all this, is also involved in the development and promotion of education related policies and reforms. It works closely with other educational bodies, state governments, and organizations to provide input and recommendations for policy formulations. NCERTs expertise and its research-based insights from various surveys and projects, contribute to the shaping of educational policies that are aimed at improving access, equity, quality and inclusion in the Indian Education System.
Conclusion:
The chief significance of NCERT lies within its efforts to provide a strong foundation for students’ education and to promote their holistic development. By developing a standardized curriculum, conducting research, providing training and resources, NCERT contributes in the shaping of the education system in India. The emphasis of NCERT on research and surveys lets them introduce innovative reforms in education. These reforms further help in adapting teaching practices to changing needs and aspirations of learners. This makes education more relevant and meaningful.
In conclusion, NCERT, as an institution plays a pivotal role in shaping the Indian Education System through its many endeavors. Through its methods and approaches to education like curriculum development, teachers training etc. it ensures uniformity, quality and innovation in education. Its contributions have a far-reaching impact on the students, teachers and the whole education system.
