New Delhi, September 17 (Daily Kiran) : A new bridge course has been introduced for primary teachers in India who have completed their B.Ed. This program includes academic studies, a minimum of 10 days of online classes, and at least 20 days of school-based experience. The initiative aims to enhance essential skills for teaching at the primary level.
According to the Ministry of Education, this bridge course is specifically designed for in-service primary teachers appointed between June 28, 2018, and August 11, 2023. These teachers hold a B.Ed. degree but lack the D.El.Ed qualification. Their appointments are protected under a notification by the National Council for Teacher Education.
The Supreme Court directed the National Council for Teacher Education to create this bridge course on April 8, 2024, following a case involving Divesh Sharma vs. Union of India. In response, the council developed the course for the eligible teachers.
Union Education Minister Prakash Javadekar has launched this six-month certificate (bridge) course in primary teacher education. The program comprises six theoretical courses along with practical training in schools. Activities such as teaching practice, reflective diaries, and portfolios will be included to provide teachers with real classroom application of their knowledge. The course aims to prepare educators to understand and cater to the diverse learning needs of young children.
Emphasis will be placed on developing teaching skills, attitudes, and reflective practices. The curriculum focuses on enabling teachers to provide quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all children in primary classrooms. The course will be delivered through distance education, utilizing online programs, school-based training, video tutorials, e-learning materials, and digital platforms, allowing teachers to continue their studies alongside their jobs. Instruction will be available in both Hindi and English.
Teachers will be able to answer theoretical exam papers in any of the 22 languages listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. The admission process will be conducted online, with eligible teachers able to register through the NIOS official bridge course portal. They will need to upload necessary documents and can check their admission status via a designated dashboard.
Study materials will be provided in digital format, and teachers will have access to additional educational resources such as audio, video, and other interactive content online. This bridge course emphasizes the practical application of knowledge gained in class.
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