International Schools vs National Board Schools: Which one is better?

Table of Contents

Introduction
Overview of National Boards
Advantages of National Boards
Overview of International Boards
Advantages of International Boards
A quick comparison
Should I switch my child to an international board?
Conclusion

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Introduction

Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions in your life, one that could determine their future. Today, parents have numerous options, from national boards like CBSE to international curricula such as the IB curriculum in India. Questions like IB board vs CBSE or difference between IB and CBSE are natural for any parent to consider. School years are pivotal in your child’s journey; read further to understand the benefits of IB board and choose a school that helps your child excel.

Overview of National Boards

India’s education landscape is shaped by three major national boards: the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (ICSE), and the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS), an ideal alternative for students who cannot attend traditional schools. Each board has its own merits and approach to education, setting them apart.

Advantages of National Boards

• Uniformity and a Set Eco-System: Schools under the national boards follow uniform standards nationwide, ensuring a baseline level of quality and making what is IB syllabus a common query among those looking for diverse educational frameworks.
• Recognition: The certifications of the national boards are recognized and accepted throughout the country. This makes them a suitable choice for students planning to pursue higher education, especially within the country
• Structured Examination Pattern: The examination pattern, consisting of various external and internal assessments and project work, is designed by the boards, reflecting the structured nature of the syllabus. 

The Challenges

• Lack of Flexibility: The curriculum set by the national boards adheres to national education standards, hence allowing little room for flexibility when compared to the dynamic IB curriculum
• Limited Global Perspective: The lack of international mindedness may challenge students aiming to pursue higher education or a career abroad, sparking interest in what is IB curriculum.
• Outdated Curriculum: Components of the national curricula often do not sync with the needs of the times we live in, unlike the updated international board syllabus.
• Passive Learning: There is over-emphasis on textbook learning, limiting innovative pedagogy while IB curriculum means active learning. 

Overview of International Boards

We live in a world that is changing rapidly. The Internet has democratised access to information and knowledge in every corner of the world. As Ana Dominguez, Principal of Universal Wisdom School, Pune puts it, professions relevant today will be obsolete in a few years time. New ideas and professions that we cannot even imagine now will come to play. This has led to the emergence of international education as a credible choice for parents. India has seen a rapid growth in international schools with well-recognized international programmes available. The International Baccalaureate (IB) and Cambridge Assessment International Education are two globally recognized and respected programmes that make students future-ready. The Universal Wisdom School, Pune (UWS) is one of the best schools in Pune offering both curricula, and is fast becoming a beacon for IB education board.

Advantages of International Boards

• Holistic Development: The curricula promote a holistic approach to education. Academics are complemented by a variety of co-curricular activities which act as catalysts for the overall personality development of students, showcasing the benefits of IB board.
• International Recognition: What is IB in India? International schooling aligns with the requirements of the universities abroad. Schools play a significant role in career counselling, ensuring your children get the best international college admissions.
• Active Pedagogy: IB syllabus means active learning. Teaching-learning methodologies are tailor-made and go beyond the textbook. An individualised approach is adopted to instil a practical attitude and practical outlook in students.
• Diverse and Dynamic Curricula: IInternational curricula are multidisciplinary and dynamic, meeting the requirements of the ever-changing industry and reflecting the IB curriculum meaning and ethos. 

The Challenges

• Lack of Local Reference: The curriculum may not always align perfectly with the local context and requirements, prompting queries about IB board in India.
• Rigour: The multidisciplinary structure and the plethora of subjects may overload students, affecting their work-life balance.  

A quick comparison

Factor	International Curricula	National Boards
Curriculum Structure	Multidisciplinary Diverse Dynamic Updated regularly in sync with the needs	-Adherence to national education guidelines
Teaching Methodology	Advocated inquiry-based approach Learning beyond textbooks Dynamic curricula	Structured examination pattern
Faculty	Undergo regular internal and external training to stay updated  Multidisciplinary	Qualified in respective subjects   No training programmes
Assessment	Continuous performance assessment through tests, presentations and project work	Evaluation primarily based on written exams and internal assessments
Tutoring	Entire responsibility lies with the school	Parents often feel the need for external tutors (tuitions)

Should I Switch My Child to an International Board?

Switching from a national board to an international board can be a valid concern for every parent. Will my child be able to cope with the demands of international education? Over the years, there is a certain familiarity with national boards and schools that often puts parents in a comfort zone. On the other hand, international education does the groundwork for your child’s future in a globalised world. Here’s a reality check if you are thinking of an international school for your child.

Conclusion

National Boards and schools have been around for a long time and have developed an ecosystem that provides parents with uniformity and familiarity. However, international boards and schools are becoming a popular choice among parents from the perspective of a global future for their children. Choose a school that addresses your children’s learning needs and helps them thrive in life.