In 2025, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) announced a major transformation in its exam format. The board is moving away from traditional rote-based assessments and adopting a competency-based system that emphasizes understanding, application, and higher-order thinking. CBSE Shift from Rote Learning While students may be the face of this change, a critical question looms large: Are teachers ready for this shift?
This article examines what the change entails, where teacher readiness stands today, challenges ahead, and what must be done to ensure this transition succeeds.
What’s Changing: From Memorization to Competency
Under the new exam structure CBSE Shift from Rote Learning:
80% of the Class 10 question paper will test higher-order skills—analytical thinking, conceptual understanding, and real-world application.
Only 20% of marks will come from factual recall.
The split:
40% from MCQs or problem-solving focusing on analysis/application,
40% from short and long answers testing conceptual clarity,
20% from purely factual questions.
This change aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which shifts evaluation from knowledge-based to skill- and competency-based.
The Teacher Readiness Challenge
Training and Skill Gaps
A major obstacle is that many teachers lack experience in designing or evaluating competency-based assessments. A study by the Centre for Teacher Accreditation (CENTA) found average scores among teachers in subject knowledge at ~62%, general teaching pedagogy ~50%, and pedagogical content knowledge ~53%—all below the 75% benchmark set by the National Professional Standards for Teachers.
In many schools, especially in smaller towns or rural areas, teachers either haven’t had access to advanced training or face logistical and resource constraints.
Digital and Assessment Skills
Only about 26.7% of teachers have been trained in computer-based instruction, a key requirement for designing digital assessments or using online tools.
Many teachers are strong in content delivery but struggle with creating questions that test depth, reasoning, or real-world application rather than rote recall.
Time and Workload Constraints
Educators already handle multiple responsibilities—administrative tasks, extra-curricular events, non-teaching duties. Adding the burden of creating new assessment materials and upskilling may strain their capacities.
Promising Steps & Supports from CBSE
All teachers are mandated to complete 50 hours of annual training, split between CBSE and partner agencies like NCERT.
In 2025, emphasis is being placed on pedagogical training for STEM subjects to help teachers evolve from content deliverers to facilitators.
Introduction of a data verification slip system helps schools cross-check student details and assessment inputs, reinforcing accuracy and reducing error risks.
However, CBSE Shift from Rote Learning critics point out that training access remains uneven. Some teachers, particularly those on temporary contracts, may not even have access to these programs.
What Needs to Be Done for Smooth Implementation
1. Intensive, Practical Training
Beyond theoretical workshops, teachers should be guided in creating actual competency-based questions, evaluating student responses, and using digital tools in real classroom settings.
2. Peer Learning and Mentorship
Schools can build internal mentoring systems where teachers share best practices. Experienced educators can guide peers in crafting assessments and pedagogy shifts. Some schools already echo this approach.
3. Gradual Transition & Pilot Phases
Rather than switching overnight, CBSE could pilot the new format in select schools or grades, gather feedback, and refine processes before full rollout.
4. Resource Access
Teachers need access to question banks, model papers, digital platforms, and tools for student assessment and feedback.
5. Reduced Non-Academic Burden
Minimize extraneous administrative or event-related duties so teachers can focus on upgrading pedagogy and assessment design.
Why Teacher Readiness Matters More Than Format
Even the most thoughtfully designed exam reform will fail if those who deliver it—the teachers—are not prepared. If teachers continue operating in rote-learning mode, students will receive mixed signals. A true shift to competency-based learning requires educators to lead the change.
FAQs: CBSE Shift from Rote Learning
Q1. Why is CBSE shifting away from rote learning?
Ans: To align with NEP 2020 and produce learners who can think critically, apply knowledge, and solve real-world problems.
Q2. Will students face challenges adapting?
Ans: Yes, but many believe students will adapt faster than teachers because the shift tests reasoning more than memorization.
Q3. What is the biggest gap for teachers?
Ans: Designing competency-based assessments and evaluating reasoning, plus digital skills for new formats.
Q4. How can schools help teachers?
Ans: By providing mentoring, time for collaborative planning, access to resource banks, and minimizing non-teaching duties.
Q5. Is CBSE training enough?
Ans: Current training is a positive step, but uneven access and lack of hands-on support mean more depth and follow-up are needed.
