With a child in mind, selecting the right board of education often seems like navigating through myths. The Indian Certificate of Secondary Education or ICSE, is one of those curricula that has frequent myths attached to it. One might be well aware of how holistic the learning approach is and the emphasis on the conceptual mindset, but these very factors result in parents or students opting against this board, mainly because of hearsay.
Being one of the best English medium schools in Gujarat, Nalanda International School believes in giving clarity about the benefits of the ICSE board. In this blog, we shall bust some of the common myths about ICSE, helping parents and students make informed decisions.
Myth 1: ICSE is Tougher Than Other Boards
Reality: ICSE Focuses on Conceptual Understanding
Most myths scare people about the ICSE curriculum, that it is too hard. The reality lies in that the syllabus of the ICSE’s study material is structured in such a way that more emphasis is given to conceptual clarity rather than one-time memorisation.
Such curricula push students towards gaining and achieving a deeper understanding rather than studying just to face the exams. This method helps information to be enhanced in retention capacity and further be applied to regular scenarios.
Myth 2: Competition tests are not designed for ICSE
Reality: ICSE Helps Build a Fundamental Base for Future Research.
A common belief is that ICSE students fail in competitive examinations like UPSC, JEE, and NEET. It is a wrong notion because ICSE schools follow a very intense curriculum that will enhance the analysing and problem-solving capabilities of students.
Students are given critical thinking abilities that aid them in national and international examinations as the curriculum conforms with international standards.
Myth 3: ICSE Is Just For Learners Who Want To Study Abroad
Reality: ICSE Offers Equal Opportunities For Both Domestic And Foreign Study
Another widespread misunderstanding is that students who want to pursue further education overseas are the only ones who benefit from ICSE. While the ICSE curriculum does follow an international pattern, it is equally recognised by Indian universities and colleges.
The board’s emphasis on English proficiency and broad subject knowledge gives students an edge, whether they choose to study in India or abroad.
Myth 4: ICSE Students Have An Overburdened Syllabus
Reality: ICSE Promotes Thematic Learning With A Balanced Approach
The perception that students find ICSE to be very demanding is untrue. Despite the curriculum’s breadth, it is organised such that theoretical and practical concepts are connected. We at Nalanda International School offer holistic education which includes a variety Sports, extra-curricular activities, camps, field excursions, and project-based learning to make learning fun and productive.
Myth 5: Science And Math Are Not Suitable For ICSE
Reality: The Science And Math Curriculums Under ICSE Are Well-Structured
It is often said that ICSE does not cater well to the students studying science and mathematics and is more humanities-orientated. This is untrue. Because of its thorough study of science and mathematics, the ICSE syllabus gives pupils a strong foundation in these areas.
The board’s emphasis on application-based learning helps pupils both academically and competitively.
Myth 6: ICSE School Charges More Compared to Other Boards
Reality: Quality Education Demands Quality Value-Added Advantage
There may be slightly more cost due to some high-class ICSE schools. The reason for this is that the institution has sufficiently invested in the best teachers, the best resources, and cutting-edge facilities. This kind of investment in quality education, practical learning, and extracurricular activities is what students deserve for preparing them for success.
Myth 7: Special Attention Not Being Given to Indian Culture and Values at ICSE Schools
Reality: Indian Culture Blended with Global Knowledge by ICSE
There is a widespread perception that ICSE encourages foreign culture at the cost of Indian culture. However, ICSE covers subjects like History, Civics, and Environmental Education which teach Indian history, governance, and values. At Nalanda, there is an emphasis on imparting Indian values and culture, celebrating most Indian festivals in school, imbibing discipline and developing all-round character of our children.
Myth 8: ICSE Students Cannot Easily Adapt To Any Other Board
Reality: ICSE Prepares Students For Any Educational Transition
Some parents believe that if their child shifts from ICSE to any other board, they cannot manage academically. But ICSE has a strong base. Therefore, the children adapt easily. They can easily shift to other boards like CBSE or state boards or to any other foreign curriculum like IB or IGCSE because the curriculum focuses on analytical thinking and comprehension.
Myth 9: ICSE Schools Have Few Sports and Extracurricular Activities
Reality: There is a Balance Of Extracurricular Activity And Sports With Academics in ICSE
While ICSE schools put great stress on the all-round development of their students, Nalanda International School makes available a myriad of extracurricular activities for that purpose, including music, drama, athletics, and community service.
Myth 10: Regional Language Is Not Promoted in ICSE
Reality: ICSE Supports Multilingualism
Some of the parents feel that the ICSE curriculum is too English-centric and emphasizes less on regional languages. Hindi and other regional languages find representation in the syllabus of ICSE, however.
Students will continue to contact their linguistic and cultural heritage, even if schools add more languages. The multilingual approach allows for effective communication in multiple settings and enhances cognitive abilities.
Myth 11: The Exam Reality-Oriented and Excessively Strict ICSE Assessment Process
Reality: The ICSE Follows A Stringent And Continuous Assessment Process
Perhaps the most held misconception is that ICSE is exam-centric and mug-up-based. The assessment process is a combination of written exams, practicals, project work, and internal evaluations. Under this continuous and comprehensive assessment process, pupils are not only evaluated on their ability to memorise but also on applying knowledge to practical situations.
One of the most comprehensive and accessible educational methods that incorporates research-based projects, experiential learning, and hands-on applications is offered by the ICSE evaluation system.
Conclusion
Since it fosters critical thinking, practical knowledge, and intellectual interests, the ICSE curriculum is one of the most extensive educational programs offered to pupils. Parents and kids may make sound decisions about their future education after eliminating these misconceptions.
International School Nalanda is a great option that provides a rich curriculum when picking ICSE schools in Vadodara. This dedication to excelling in academics, co-curricular activities and student well-being makes us the number one English medium school in Gujarat. All the facilities and admission process details are mentioned on our website.
