National Achievement Survey 2024 Overview

The National Achievement Survey (NAS) 2024 is set to take place on December 4. This initiative involves around 23 lakh students from approximately 88,000 schools across 36 States and Union Territories. The survey aims to assess students in classes 3, 6, and 9 in subjects such as language, mathematics, science, and social science.

Purpose of the National Achievement Survey

The NAS is designed to evaluate the competencies of students at foundational, preparatory, and middle stages of education. It aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The results will inform remedial measures to enhance educational outcomes.

Subjects and Languages Covered

Students will be assessed in language, mathematics, The World Around Us, science, and social science. The survey accommodates 23 mediums of instruction, including regional languages like Assamese, Bengali, and Tamil, as well as English.

Implementation and Administration

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will oversee the administration of the survey in collaboration with state and union territory authorities. A comprehensive training programme has been conducted for over 94,000 field investigators and observers to ensure a smooth execution.

Monitoring and Oversight

To guarantee the integrity of the survey, a robust monitoring system is in place. This includes 3,128 district-level officers and 180 state nodal officers, along with 38 national-level observers. Their role is to ensure the fair conduct of the survey across all sampled schools.

Reporting and Outcomes

After the survey, National, State, and District report cards will be published. These reports will be made available to the public, providing vital information about student performance and areas needing improvement.

Historical Context

The NAS has been conducted periodically, with the last survey held on November 12, 2021. The initiative is part of a rolling programme aimed at understanding student achievement across various educational stages.

Future Directions

The NAS will continue to evolve in response to educational needs. The findings will help shape policies and practices to improve learning outcomes for all students in the country.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of the National Education Policy 2020 on the Indian education system.
2. Estimate the significance of regional languages in the National Achievement Survey 2024.
3. Point out the role of technology in enhancing educational assessments in India.
4. What are the challenges faced in conducting large-scale educational surveys? How can these be mitigated?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of the National Education Policy 2020 on the Indian education system.

1. NEP 2020 aims to overhaul the education system by promoting holistic, multi-disciplinary education.
2. It emphasizes vocational training and skill development, aligning education with job market needs.
3. Focus on early childhood care and education (ECCE) to enhance foundational learning.
4. Increased flexibility in curriculum and assessment methods, encouraging creativity and critical thinking.
5. Encourages the use of technology and digital learning resources to improve accessibility and quality.

2. Estimate the significance of regional languages in the National Achievement Survey 2024.

1. Regional languages promote inclusivity, allowing students from diverse backgrounds to participate effectively.
2. They enhance comprehension and retention of subject matter, improving overall learning outcomes.
3. Encourages cultural identity and pride among students, encouraging a sense of belonging.
4. Facilitates better communication between teachers and students, particularly in rural areas.
5. Supports the preservation of linguistic diversity and cultural heritage within the education system.

3. Point out the role of technology in enhancing educational assessments in India.

1. Technology enables efficient data collection and analysis, leading to quicker results and insights.
2. Online assessments can reach a wider audience, increasing accessibility for students in remote areas.
3. Digital tools facilitate personalized learning experiences and adaptive assessments based on student performance.
4. Use of analytics helps identify learning gaps and inform targeted interventions for improvement.
5. Promotes transparency and accountability in the assessment process through standardized testing frameworks.

4. What are the challenges faced in conducting large-scale educational surveys? How can these be mitigated?

1. Logistical challenges in coordinating across numerous schools and states can lead to inconsistencies.
2. Data reliability issues may arise from variations in assessment administration and scoring.
3. Resistance from educators or institutions due to fear of negative evaluations can hinder participation.
4. Mitigation strategies include thorough training for personnel and clear communication of the survey’s purpose.
5. Utilizing technology for real-time monitoring and feedback can enhance the integrity of the survey process.