CBSE Board Exam Twice will increase stress, logistic challenge, teacher workload: Ritu Dubey, MRIS Principal

Ritu Dubey, Head of School, IB, Manav Rachna International School (MRIS), Faridabad, shared insights regarding cooperative learning, challenges, as well as advantages faced because of Board Examinations held twice each year.

Q: The Education Ministry declared that there will be Board Exams twice a year. What could be the advantages and disadvantages?

A: The announcement of board exams twice in a year can have many advantages and disadvantages, which can change from time to time regarding the details of implementation of this practice in the education sector. It is essential to understand that, in most cases, the effectiveness of conducting board exams in a bi-yearly manner is largely dependent upon proper implementation by educational authorities. Moving further ahead in highlighting the possible negative aspects of such implementation, it is important to address concerns regarding impacting students in terms of genuine knowledge measurement by conducting the board exams in a bi-yearly practice.

Some of the benefits of having the Board Exam twice a year could be Reduced Exam Pressure, Timely Feedback, Increased Preparedness, Reduction in Rote Learning, Opportunity for Improvement, and Flexibility.

At the same time, the drawbacks would include Increased Stress, Curriculum Pacing, Logistical Issues, Teacher Workload, Issues of Equality, Assessment Quality, reduced Holiday Time, and Financial Concerns.

Also read: CBSE Date Sheet 2026 For Phase 1 and 2

Q:  How to develop effective communication among Children?

A: These include crucial areas of cultivating effectiveness in communication, higher-order thinking ability, and curiosity in children. Some of the approaches or strategies that can be adopted to achieve these and other areas include Effective Communication, Higher-Order Thinking Ability, Inquiry, Curiosity Cultivation, Exploration and Discovery, Independent Research, Encourage Reading, Open-Ended Assignments, Guest Speakers and Experts, and Celebrate Curiosity.

It is essential to ensure an enabling environment is created where children feel comfortable being themselves. They should be able to make mistakes without fear. This is achieved through the adoption of these strategies. They are instrumental in developing successful communication skills, strong higher-order learning skills, as well as an innate curiosity in children.

Q: How important is the concept of STEM learning among school-going students?

A: The reasons why STEM learning is important to school students in the International Baccalaureate (IB) are similar to those for other students in the different educational systems. However, there is a unique educational framework in the IB that puts strong emphasis on holistic and international approaches to education.

In a nutshell, STEM learning in an IB program encompasses the program's focus on global awareness, interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking, creativity, and service to the community. Further, this prepares students for various postsecondary educational and career opportunities, thus preparing them to address complex global challenges.

Q: Why is an introduction to collaborative learning important?

A: Introduction to collaborative learning is critical; it enriches the educational experience, instills necessary skills, and prepares students for demands in the contemporary world. It helps create well-rounded, engaged, and competent learners who are better equipped to thrive academically and professionally.

Also read: CBSE Class 10 syllabus 2026

Q: What are some of the trends that will drive the Education sector in 2026?

A: Some of the current trends in education that drive the education sector in contemporary times are:

The COVID-19 pandemic hastened the implementation of hybrid learning models that combine in-person and online education. This trend is likely to continue as schools and universities offer flexible options to students. The education sector is in constant evolution, influenced by a range of factors such as technological changes, societal shifts, and economic constraints. For a better understanding of specific trends that are likely to shape the year 2026 and beyond, one should be updated regarding the happenings both locally and globally in education.

Q: How is the school taking up skill-oriented learning on the lines of the NCF?

A: The National Curriculum Framework in many countries around the world, including India, is a skill-based learning framework because it understands the need for critical thinking skills in addition to learning facts by heart. Schools need to adopt skill-based learning in accordance with NCF by means of Revised Curriculum, Incorporating Life Skills, Assessment Reforms, Teacher Reforms, Hands-On Learning, Cross-Disciplinary Curriculum, Utilization of Technology, Project Learning, Encourage Critical Thinking, Collaboration Learning, Extracurricular Activities, Inclusive Education, Continuous Assessment, Community Involvement, and Involvement of Parents in the Community.