The Covid-19 pandemic has brought a drastic change in the education sector. The downfall in education quality and the increased number of school dropouts were significantly noticeable. According to Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics report (2020), in Bangladesh, nearly seven out of ten are out-of-school children. While 65% of children finish lower secondary education, only 29% of children finish higher secondary school. In addition, the pandemic-induced school closure resulted in huge learning loss. To mitigate these gaps, Bangladesh government has taken commendable measures, including shifting to a new curriculum.
The new curriculum in school-level education is a laudable initiative that aims to transform the education system and prepare students for the future challenges. The curriculum has been crafted with meticulous attention to detail, incorporating a plethora of pedagogical techniques designed to facilitate the learning. Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education, Ministry of Primary and Mass Education and the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) have been working together on the revision of the new curriculum that is on the piloting/tryout phase in 62 educational institutions from the year 2022. Currently, this curriculum has been implementing in class six and seven across the country. In the next academic year, class eight and nine will be brought under this new curriculum.
Experiential learning of science and math is an essential aspect of school-level education that can help students to develop a deeper understanding of these subjects. It is also an effective way to foster critical thinking, problem-solving skills and creativity. The new curriculum is also notable for its incorporation of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The emphasis on critical thinking is essential to equip students with the skills they need to navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world, and experiential learning can provide it through hands-on, real-world experiences that allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. In science and math, this can take many forms, such as conducting experiments, building models and analysing data. These activities help students see the practical relevance of what they are learning, which can enhance their motivation to learn and their ability to retain information.
However, implementing experiential learning in Bangladesh can be challenging due to a lack of resources and teacher training. According to a report by UNESCO (2021), Bangladesh has a shortage of trained science and math teachers, and many schools lack the necessary equipment and materials to deliver practical learning experiences. Addressing these challenges will require investment in teacher training, as well as in resources and infrastructure.
The curriculum also places great importance on developing students' communication skills. Effective communication is crucial in today's globalised world, and the new curriculum is designed to ensure that students can articulate their thoughts clearly and persuasively. The curriculum's emphasis on communication reflects the growing recognition of the importance of soft skills in workplace.
In conclusion, the new curriculum in school-level education is a commendable initiative that reflects a growing recognition of the importance of interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking and communication skills. While implementation challenges exist, with the right support and resources, the curriculum has the potential to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in the twenty-first century. In addition, experiential learning is an educational approach that emphasises the importance of hands-on experiences in the learning process. This approach has been shown to be effective in improving student engagement and understanding of subject matter. By incorporating experiential learning into their teaching practices, educators can provide students with a more meaningful and engaging learning experience.
