Introduction
Teacher education is the backbone of a strong educational system. For quality learning to take place, teachers must be effectively trained in pedagogy, content knowledge, and modern teaching methods. In India, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has been at the forefront of improving teacher education through curriculum development, training, and research. Established in 1961, NCERT’s main objective is to assist and advise the central and state governments on academic matters related to school education.
One of its most important contributions has been in teacher education, ensuring that teachers are equipped with the necessary skills and resources to create a learner-centric environment.
Objectives of NCERT in Teacher Education
The major objectives of NCERT in relation to teacher education are:
Improve the quality of teacher education at elementary and secondary levels.
Develop model curricula and syllabi for teacher education institutions.
Provide professional training programmes for teachers, principals, and teacher educators.
Conduct research and innovation in pedagogy, evaluation, and classroom practices.
Bridge the gap between theory and practice in teacher education.
Functions of NCERT in Teacher Education
1. Curriculum and Syllabus Development
NCERT plays a key role in developing frameworks, curricula, and textbooks used in teacher education institutions. The National Curriculum Framework (NCF) prepared by NCERT provides guidelines for teaching practices, assessment, and child-centered pedagogy.
2. Preparation of Teaching-Learning Materials
NCERT develops high-quality teaching-learning materials including:
Model textbooks for different school levels
Teacher handbooks and guides
Digital resources and e-content through initiatives like DIKSHA
These resources help teachers deliver lessons effectively and adapt to changing educational needs.
3. Research in Teacher Education
NCERT conducts educational research in areas such as teaching methods, curriculum evaluation, classroom practices, and inclusive education. Research findings are used to improve teacher training programmes and guide policy decisions.
4. Teacher Training Programmes
NCERT organizes orientation and refresher courses for teachers, principals, and teacher educators. Its Regional Institutes of Education (RIEs) located in Ajmer, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Mysuru, and Shillong provide pre-service and in-service teacher education programmes.
Some initiatives include:
In-service teacher training workshops
Diploma, B.Ed., M.Ed. programmes through RIEs
Capacity-building programmes for teachers under government schemes
5. Use of ICT in Teacher Education
NCERT integrates Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in teacher education through:
E-learning platforms
Digital training modules
Online teacher training under initiatives like NISHTHA (National Initiative for School Heads’ and Teachers’ Holistic Advancement)
6. Development of Model Institutions
NCERT’s Regional Institutes of Education (RIEs) function as model teacher training institutions where innovative pedagogical practices are developed and implemented.
7. Collaboration with National and International Agencies
NCERT collaborates with organizations like UNESCO, UNICEF, and national bodies like NCTE (National Council for Teacher Education) to improve teacher education quality.
Role of NCERT at Different Levels
Elementary Level
Designing teacher training modules for primary teachers.
Focusing on child-centered and activity-based learning.
Preparing teachers to handle multilingual and multicultural classrooms.
Secondary Level
Developing subject-specific pedagogical strategies.
Training teachers to integrate ICT in teaching.
Emphasizing on inclusive and equitable education for all learners.
Importance of NCERT in Teacher Education
The role of NCERT in teacher education is significant because:
It standardizes teacher training across the country.
It ensures teachers are updated with modern teaching methodologies.
It emphasizes holistic development of teachers to meet the challenges of 21st-century classrooms.
It provides continuous professional support through research and innovation.
Challenges Faced by NCERT in Teacher Education
Ensuring uniform implementation across diverse states.
Meeting the needs of teachers in rural and remote areas.
Keeping up with rapidly changing technology in education.
Addressing the shortage of trained teacher educators.
Conclusion
The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) plays a pivotal role in strengthening teacher education in India. By designing curricula, preparing teaching resources, conducting research, and organizing teacher training programmes, NCERT ensures that teachers are prepared to nurture future generations effectively. Strengthening NCERT’s initiatives and expanding their reach will help India achieve its vision of quality and inclusive education for all as outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
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