The field trial of the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) is due to take place in September 2021. This news brings to light the significance of this international competency-based test, India’s past and planned participation, and the implications for Indian students. This article delves deeper into these facets.
About PISA
The Program for International Student Assessment, better known as PISA, is a test designed to evaluate the competence of 15-year-olds. Conducted every three years, the PISA test assesses candidates’ reading, mathematics, and science literacy abilities. Importantly, the test focuses on the students’ ability to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-life situations.
PISA is an international survey, coordinated by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). The testing initiative first saw light in the year 2000.
India’s History with PISA
India’s journey with PISA has been fairly sparse so far. The country has only participated once in the PISA test, in the year 2009. During this specific round, students from Himachal Pradesh and Tamil Nadu represented the country. The results were not entirely favourable – out of the 73 participating countries, India secured the 72nd spot, outranking only Kyrgyzstan.
This led to India distancing itself from the PISA tests. However, it was confirmed recently that students from Chandigarh would be sitting for the upcoming test in 2022. Originally, the main PISA survey was scheduled for 2021 but was postponed due to the ongoing pandemic.
Implications for India
Being a part of the PISA tests can offer several significant benefits for India. The key one among them is the opportunity to transition from rote learning to competency-based examination methods in the school system. Both the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) are expected to be part of this transformative process.
Furthermore, participation in PISA could enhance the recognition and acceptability of Indian students globally. It can prepare them optimally for the challenges and demands of the 21st-century global economy.
The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)
The OECD, responsible for coordinating the PISA tests, was constituted in the year 1961. With a total of 38 member countries, India, although not a member, is one of the key partners of the organization. The Paris-based organization’s mission includes shaping policies that promote prosperity, equality, opportunity, and overall well-being for all. The headquarters of the organization also houses the Secretariat of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
