Parents always seek the best for their children, whether it’s offering nutritious food, a safe home, or quality education. Consequently, selecting the most suitable educational system is a significant issue for those caring for children. Whether it's elementary or secondary school, choosing the most esteemed and acknowledged educational board can significantly impact the child's future career. So, prior to registering for a specific board, understand its advantages and disadvantages and take several aspects into account.
Caregivers of a child frequently find themselves puzzled between CBSE and IGCSE, unsure which one would best support the child's career advancement and success. Although many Indian schools adhere to the CBSE curriculum, global schools implement the IGCSE board. In this article, we will explore the main distinctions between CBSE and IGCSE regarding their learning methodologies and notable characteristics.
Prominent Aspects of the CBSE Curriculum
The CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) curriculum, widely adopted in Indian schools, adopts a more organized and centralized methodology for education. Let’s examine its notable characteristics.
· CBSE distinguishes itself from other boards as it enables educators to pursue their studies from any location across the country. This is due to the fact that CBSE acknowledges a vast number of schools across India.
· CBSE is one of the most favoured curricula in India and is a typical selection for parents from primary school to high school education.
· The CBSE curriculum permits students to select their desired subject combinations only within their specific stream and not from different streams.
· CBSE emphasizes the understanding and memorization of essential concepts in a theoretical subject. Nonetheless, it typically does not explore every concept thoroughly.
· CBSE offers a standardized curriculum across the entire nation.
Key Aspects of the IGCSE Curriculum
The Cambridge IGCSE is an acknowledged curriculum in numerous international schools across the globe, and it adopts a more varied and adaptable educational method. Here are its key characteristics.
· IGCSE offers a range of subjects and their combinations.
· Students following the IGCSE curriculum can benefit from flexibility by selecting their preferred subjects from various streams.
· IGCSE enjoys global recognition, allowing students to utilize the most recommended textbooks and reference materials acknowledged by IGCSE.
· The IGCSE curriculum does not have a fixed syllabus.
· The IGCSE board assists in the comprehensive learning and growth of students. The board stresses the importance of nurturing creative, analytical, and critical thinking abilities.
· Students studying under the IGCSE board should utilize the knowledge they have gained in their everyday lives.
· The IGCSE curriculum is perfect for students intending to study overseas, as the board maintains international standards and recognition.
Variations in Subjects Between CBSE and IGCSE
The CBSE curriculum offers various subjects organized into groups, commonly referred to as streams. Students can select subjects solely from their selected streams. English is mandatory in all three fields - science, commerce, and arts. Nevertheless, the topics of social studies, environmental studies, SUPW, and foreign languages are not essential in CBSE.
In contrast, the Cambridge IGCSE offers more than 70 various subject choices. Thus, IGCSE students have the option to select subjects that they feel at ease with or are enthusiastic about. In other terms, there are no limitations on stream or subject choice. Every subject aims to assist learners in gaining understanding of global viewpoints and research.
The difficulty of CBSE compared to IGCSE varies based on the child's strengths and personal learning preferences. The CBSE curriculum is designed to suit the Indian educational setting and context, emphasizing deep understanding within an organized teaching framework. In contrast, the IGCSE board typically offers greater flexibility and international acknowledgment.
CBSE vs IGCSE: Instructional Approaches
CBSE employs a more inquiry-driven and cooperative learning method. It enables students to collaborate on group assignments, take part in peer-to-peer interactions, and join in group conversations. It allows them to exchange ideas and learn productively from one another. If you are searching for schools, examine the distinctive teaching approaches of your selected CBSE-affiliated institution to guarantee interactive and hands-on learning.
Conversely, the teaching approaches of the IGCSE curriculum emphasize fostering independent thinking and helping learners form their own views. It additionally aids them in assessing and interpreting information, allowing them to formulate pertinent arguments through their independent critical thinking and analytical abilities.
Acknowledging the Authority of CBSE and IGCSE
The main distinguishing factor between the CBSE and IGCSE boards is the awarding bodies for each. The CBSE board is acknowledged by the Union Government of India. It exclusively adheres to the NCERT curriculum throughout India. Conversely, the IGCSE curriculum is acknowledged and founded by the esteemed University of Cambridge International Examinations. Consequently, it enjoys global acknowledgment and adheres to a student-focused educational approach.
The CBSE board conducts the AISSE (All India Secondary School Examination) for the 10th grade and the AISSCE (All India Senior School Certificate Examination) for the 12th grade. The IGCSE oversees the Cambridge Primary as well as the Cambridge Secondary 1 and 2 assessments, respectively.
Advantages and Disadvantages of CBSE
Advantages:
· CBSE is suitable for students who need to move frequently within the country because of reasons such as their parents' ongoing job relocations.
· It allows independent students from unaffiliated schools to take the exam.
· The fees for CBSE are generally lower than those of other recognized boards in India.
· Students can easily access coaching and extra support throughout India.
· Students have the freedom to select their main language and method of communication. In addition to English medium, there are various other language medium schools affiliated with the CBSE board in India.
Drawbacks
· CBSE offers a limited number of subject options.
· The board does not stress involvement in extracurricular activities.
· CBSE primarily takes a theoretical approach to any subject, with minimal emphasis on practical work.
· The board is not as focused on enhancing the students' language and social science abilities.
Advantages and Disadvantages of IGCSE
Advantages
· It provides a broad array of topics, enabling students to choose subjects flexibly.
· Students who want to study internationally should opt for the IGCSE curriculum.
· IGCSE encompasses key fields such as science, commerce, humanities, and languages.
· IGCSE emphasizes gaining knowledge and honing critical skills instead of focusing on grades.
Drawbacks
· Learners may struggle to find the most suitable tutoring and coaching options providing IGCSE level courses.
· The IGCSE board operates solely in the English language.
· It is costly in comparison to Indian boards like CBSE, ICSE, and various state boards.
Final Thoughts
We trust that the article assisted you in choosing the best curriculum for your child. Conduct comprehensive research and allocate time to ensure your child’s future is safe. If you're searching for an international school in Pune or in other parts of India, you're probably considering the IGCSE board. If your child does not intend to study abroad in the future, the CBSE board would be a great option.
