CBSE Yet to Decide on Calculator Use ISC Allows It for Class 12- By Seema Khanna

CBSE Yet to Decide on Calculator Use ISC Allows It for Class 12- By Seema Khanna

Calculator Use in Board Exams: CBSE Undecided, ISC Allows It , Mar-14-2025

CBSE yet to approve calculator use in class 12 accountancy exams

introduction the use of calculators in board examinations has been a topic of debate in recent years, with educational boards considering changes to reduce student stress and enhance learning outcomes. While some boards have already approved calculator usage, others are still deliberating the matter.

CBSE's current stance on calculator use as of march 13, 2025, the central board of secondary education (cbse) has not finalized the approval for calculator use in class 12 accountancy exams. Although the cbse curriculum committee has recommended allowing calculators to align with international standards and ease student stress, the final decision awaits approval from the board's apex governing body.

Currently, cbse permits only students with special needs to use calculators during board exams. This initiative is part of cbse's broader efforts to align with international education standards and the national education policy (nep) by reducing academic pressure on students. However, general students are still required to perform calculations manually during exams.

CISCE's policy on calculator use in contrast, the council for the indian school certificate examinations (CISCE ) has already approved the use of scientific calculators in isc (class 12) examinations. Students appearing for isc exams are permitted to use specific models, such as the casio fx-82 ms, to assist with complex calculations during their exams. This policy aims to help students focus more on conceptual understanding rather than spending excessive time on lengthy numerical calculations.

Rationale behind calculator use in exams the discussion around allowing calculators in board exams stems from several key arguments:

Reducing exam stress: allowing calculators can help students focus on applying concepts rather than getting stuck in lengthy calculations.
International alignment: many global educational boards permit calculator use in secondary and higher secondary examinations.
Encouraging analytical thinking: with calculators handling numerical computations, students can concentrate on problem-solving and analytical reasoning.
Ease in complex calculations: subjects like accountancy, mathematics, and physics require extensive calculations, and using calculators can help students manage time effectively during exams.

Future prospects if CBSE approves the use of calculators in class 12 accountancy exams, it will mark a significant shift in examination policies. The decision could pave the way for calculator usage in other subjects that involve complex calculations. However, until an official announcement is made, students appearing for cbse board exams must continue following the current manual calculation rules.

Conclusion while CBSE is still in the process of finalizing its stance on calculator use, cisce students already benefit from the allowance of scientific calculators in their exams. The debate highlights the evolving approach toward student-friendly examination reforms, aiming to create a balanced and stress-free academic environment.

Author - seema khanna