The traditional report cards used in schools are undergoing a significant change, thanks to the introduction of a new ‘holistic progress card’ (HPC) by the National Council for Educational and Research Training (NCERT). This new approach, in line with the principles of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aims to provide a more thorough assessment of students’ progress beyond just academic performance. Developed by the Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development (PARAKH), a body under the NCERT, the HPC is customized for students in different stages of schooling. While the HPCs for foundational, preparatory, and middle stages have been implemented, those for higher classes are still in progress.
So, what exactly is the Holistic Progress Card (HPC)?
Unlike traditional report cards that focus only on marks or grades, the HPC takes a comprehensive evaluation approach. It includes regular assessments of students through engaging activities in class, making them active participants in their learning journey. These activities assess various skills and competencies, providing insights into students’ understanding and problem-solving abilities.
One key feature of the HPC is student involvement. Students not only assess their own performance but also evaluate their peers. For example, in the foundational stage, students respond to statements about their preferences and evaluate their classmates’ work.
Additionally, the HPC connects home and school, with parents contributing to the assessment process by sharing insights on their child’s academic engagement, homework completion, and extracurricular activities.
The introduction of the HPC marks a shift from traditional assessment methods to focus on building students’ self-awareness and critical thinking skills. It emphasizes competency-based evaluation over rote learning, providing a holistic view of each student’s strengths and areas for improvement.
With many states and Union Territories adopting this approach, the HPC is set to revolutionize how student progress is evaluated, promoting a more inclusive and effective education system.