A Shift from 8-4-4: Embracing 2-6-3-3
In 2017, Kenya bid farewell to the long-standing 8-4-4 education system, replacing it with the innovative 2-6-3-3 system and introducing the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
This shift marks the end of an era in Kenyan education, steering away from the cutthroat competition and ranking that have characterized the sector for 32 years.
Breaking the Chains of Exam-Driven Anxiety
The 8-4-4 system fostered an environment of anxiety among parents and candidates, leading to unethical practices such as double registrations and bribery to secure advantageous positions.
The obsession with being ranked number one resulted in a distorted education landscape, where schools engaged in deceptive practices to attract students based on perceived ranking.
Private Schools and the Ranking Game
Private schools, in particular, played a risky game, creating multiple examination centers to manipulate results.
This not only compromised the integrity of the education system but also led to corruption in the allocation of coveted spots in prestigious national schools.
The 8-4-4 system became a breeding ground for malpractices that tarnished the reputation of the education sector.
The Call for Change: Competencies Over Rote Learning
Recognizing the flaws in the 8-4-4 system, the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development advocated for a change.
The CBC was born out of a needs assessment aligned with national aspirations.
It represents a departure from content mastery through rote learning, emphasizing observable skills and competencies.
Soft Skills for a Competitive Edge
The CBC focuses on nurturing essential soft skills, including communication, collaboration, critical thinking, problem-solving, imagination, creativity, citizenship, learning to learn, self-efficacy, and digital literacy.
Learners engage in investigative and explorative activities, providing them with a competitive advantage in the job market and business opportunities upon graduation.
Curriculum-Based Assessment (CBA): A Paradigm Shift
Unlike traditional exams, the CBC introduces Curriculum-Based Assessment (CBA), a methodical process that measures a student’s competency against predetermined performance standards.
CBA collects evidence to analyze learners’ progress and achievements, moving away from a one-size-fits-all evaluation system.
Holistic Individuals for a Competitive World
The ultimate goal of the CBC is to produce holistic individuals equipped with competencies, values, knowledge, and skills necessary to thrive in a highly competitive world.
It is a curriculum designed to stimulate the minds, hearts, and souls of learners, prioritizing a comprehensive education over the mere accumulation of facts and figures.
Conclusion: Embracing a New Educational Paradigm
In conclusion, the CBC heralds a new era in Kenyan education, fostering a learning environment that prioritizes competencies, skills, and holistic development over the narrow focus on exam rankings.
The shift from 8-4-4 to 2-6-3-3 with the CBC at its core signifies a commitment to providing Kenyan students with the tools they need to excel in the dynamic challenges of the 21st century.
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Mr. Weldon Kosgei, a dedicated educator with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) in Kenya, brings years of experience and a deep love for education to his role at TSCNewsToday.co.ke. He provides insightful and timely updates on TSC policies, educational trends, and best practices, making his articles valuable resources for educators and administrators. Mr. Kosgei’s commitment to enhancing education shines through in his writing, connecting and inspiring the teaching community across Kenya.
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