We live in a world where we are differentiated based on our race, caste, and gender. But our education must be universal for us to get accepted globally.
Global education means the education that unites the world population and makes us capable to fully interact with others around the world as one, without being isolated. The international boards in India help us achieve world-class education that is accepted worldwide, which makes it possible for us to become the global citizens of India.
UNESCO’s ‘Education Monitoring Report’ shows that inequality and exclusion are still a hindrance to our long-term goals.
Hence, the need for global education is clear.
Why is global education important?
Our world is now a global village. Therefore, its issues are also interconnected. Illiteracy and lack of unity is humankind’s biggest problem. This constitutes the need for global education.
Researches have shown that in the present times, the human race is suffering due to numerous reasons. And most of these issues are now massive global challenges.
Aims and purpose of global education
To address the current, global problems we need efforts on a global scale. Because to empower our future generations and to find out possible solutions in the post-pandemic stage, we need a level of education that can beat all odds.
Undoubtedly, skill-building has the power to shape up generations. As a result, the education designs worldwide are now focusing more on this aspect through a paradigm shift in the teaching and learning process.
So, this level of education aims to teach high-order thinking skills and global citizenship to students.
But, to build this level of citizenship, schools aim to impart world-class education.
World-class Education and International Curriculums in India
In the year 2020, a pioneer media company published the world’s best education providers' ranking. This list had the USA topping the charts with the first position. And the second-best in this line was the United Kingdom.
Let’s understand the scope and provisions of world-class education in India.
The American Curriculum:
The USA has made its place on the top because of its exceptional educational approach towards students' holistic development. The key feature of this curriculum is the emphasis on ‘quality learning’. As a result, it focuses on the student’s achievements and skill-building over and above just the grade completion.
The United Kingdom Curriculum:
The ‘National curriculum for England’, i.e. the ‘British’ curriculum, is also one of the world's most sought-after ones. Because it aims to prepare for adult life followed by great career options, it believes in a mastery approach that helps build high-level skills in students.
In India, world-class education is still a far-fetched dream!
However, the Indian designs have been supported by some international boards to raise the bar of education for a selected student base.
Global education in schools through International boards
Our Indian education system does acknowledge the need to provide world-class education to students.
However, it does not match up to the required level due to its age-old voids and gaps.
As a result, it offers alternative solutions for students. Only some schools like the British school and the American school in India collaborate with international boards. And in this way, they impart instructions that match international standards.
International boards of education in India:
International curriculums are delivered through international boards. Broadly Indian schools offer ‘International Baccalaureate’ and ‘Cambridge international’ curriculums for students.
These curriculums are believed to teach lifelong skills to students. For example- critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration, etc.
Schools can use them fully or incorporate them within their curriculum. Students who choose these options are believed to be more competent at the post-secondary level. As a result, they are even competing for the international workforce.
Let’s now take a quick look at some international boards of education in India:
AdvancED (Now, Cognia)
More than 40,000 education institutions worldwide.
Standards-based protocols and holistic approach.
The American curriculum.
Students can switch to any curriculum easily.
Recognized worldwide.
Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)
More than 10,000 schools in 160 countries
Zero Rote learning; inculcates on high order thinking skills.
National Curriculum of England, in an international context.
Students can easily switch between Cambridge schools and follow the same curriculum.
Recognized worldwide.
The Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA)
With 79 member schools, operates in 18 countries within Asia.
Focuses on Promoting the excellence of British-style education.
National Curriculum of England, often in combination with local or IB curriculum.
Students can switch to any curriculum easily.
Globally accepted.
International Baccalaureate Organization (IB)
Operates with more than 5,400 schools in 158 countries.
Focuses on learning beyond just accumulating and memorizing.
IB curriculum; often uses the local curriculums as a base.
Maintains top standards for university-level preparation.
Globally accepted.
International curriculum aim at developing global citizenship in students.
What is a global citizen? Is it possible to be a global citizen?
Global citizens are believed to have a sound understanding of the issues going around in the world. They have a logical understanding of the happenings in the world and also have the potential to perceive these through their advanced skillsets. All in all, they develop a sense of responsibility that makes a difference in the world. It is now possible to be a global citizen by choosing the right education with a holistic approach and following the world’s standards.
