Education is the most crucial aspect of your child’s life. What they learn and how they are taught sets the path for their future destinations. With the globalisation of education and a number of paths open for exploration, parents have more choices than ever. And like with anything else, with too many choices, selecting a curriculum based on your child’s learning needs and future goals can get overwhelming. The question arises – how do you make the best decision for your child, and based on what criteria?
In this guide, we will be discussing how it is important to choose a curriculum in education before you select a school. So, let’s dive in to understand what you should know before you apply!
What is a Curriculum in Education?
At its core, a curriculum is a comprehensive, planned sequence of instruction designed to achieve specific educational goals. It covers the “what, why, and how” of learning. A curriculum in education covers the learning objectives, content, teaching methodologies, assessment style, and learning experiences. It acts as a roadmap that offers a clear path for teachers and students to achieve specified goals.
Types of Curriculum in the Education System of India
The Indian education system is quite varied and offers parents and students a wide range of options to choose from. While CBSE and ICSE are the most well-known options, curriculum and education do not end here. In fact, many other options, such as the IGC or IB curriculum, focus on more holistic learning and might be more beneficial. Let’s understand the different types of curriculum in the education system below.
| Features | CBSE | ICSE/ISC | IB Diploma | Cambridge (IGCSE/A-Levels) | State Boards |
| Primary Focus | STEM, competitive exams (India) | Balanced, English, Arts, and practical application | Holistic and critical learning with a global focus | Flexible subjects, problem-solving, enquiry | Regional content, varied focus |
| Syllabus Scope | Concise, NCERT-based | Detailed and comprehensive | Broad, concept-driven and interdisciplinary | In-depth learning and flexible combinations | Varies by state |
| Teaching Style | Traditional and exam-oriented | Balanced and encourages analytical skills | Student-centred and inquiry-led | Learner-centric and application-based | Often traditional and content-focused |
| Assessment | Board exams (10th, 12th) and internal assessments | Board exams (10th, 12th) and internal assessment | Internal & external exams, essays, presentations | Exams, coursework options | State board exams (10th, 12th) |
| Language Medium | English & Hindi | Primarily English | English (often with other language options) | English | Regional language & English |
| Best Suited For | Aspiring for Indian competitive exams | Students seeking balanced, in-depth learning | Students aiming for global universities, holistic development | Students wanting subject flexibility, international recognition | Students looking for a regional focus |
| Transferability | High within India | Good within India and internationally | Very high internationally | Very high internationally | Limited, mainly within the state |
Tips to Choose the Right Curriculum
As is evident, there is no dearth of options for curriculum in education. The platter is quite wide, and the choices are quite varied. You can choose what you think will suit your child’s learning needs and development the best. If you are confused about which way to go, here are some tips for you –
- Understand Your Child – Knowing your child’s learning style and needs is the most important aspect when selecting a curriculum. Consider if your child is a visual, auditory or kinesthetic learner. What kind of environment are they most comfortable in? Do they thrive in structure or feel restricted? Do they lean more towards theory or practical learning? Considering such questions will make the decision easier.
- Evaluate Teaching Methods and Assessment Styles – Some curricula emphasise rote learning and year-end exams, while others focus on critical thinking and different forms of assessment throughout the years. Consider the level of commitment each curriculum requires when making a final decision.
- Contemplate Future Aspirations – Do you want your child to study in India or abroad? This is an important question to consider when choosing a curriculum in education. For example, IB board schools are great if you want your child to study abroad, whereas CBSE schools are great if you want your child to continue their education in India, especially in engineering or medical fields.
- Subject Choices and Flexibility – Considering the flexibility or rigidity of a curriculum is also crucial when making a choice. Some boards, like IB and Cambridge, offer greater flexibility in subject combinations. On the other hand, CBSE and State Boards often have limited flexibility when choosing subjects
There are many more factors to consider. It is important that parents consider their child’s needs foremost and research thoroughly to make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Any type of curriculum and education is only valuable as long as it is taught properly in school. At OWIS India, one of the top IB curriculum schools in Bangalore, we are steadfast in our commitment to following the curriculum and education standards to their highest level. Get in touch with us today to understand further what is a curriculum in education and how it impacts your child.
