HIGHER SECONDARY Meaning and
Definition
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Higher secondary refers to the level of education that follows the completion of secondary education and represents the final stage of high school education. It typically includes classes in grades 11 and 12, or the last two years of high school before students proceed to tertiary education or enter the workforce.
The term "higher secondary" is commonly used in countries that have adopted a 10+2 educational system, where students undertake 10 years of compulsory primary and secondary education, followed by two additional years of specialized higher secondary education. This phase of education serves as a bridge between secondary education and higher education, aiming to equip students with a deeper understanding of specific subjects, enhanced critical thinking skills, and preparation for specialized fields of study.
While the exact curriculum varies by country and educational system, higher secondary education typically offers a wide range of subjects from different disciplines, such as mathematics, sciences, humanities, languages, arts, and vocational studies. Students often have the freedom to choose their preferred subjects based on their future career aspirations or interests.
Higher secondary education seeks to provide students with a comprehensive academic foundation, enabling them to pursue further studies at the college or university level or ensuring that they possess the requisite skills and knowledge for entry-level employment.
Etymology of HIGHER SECONDARY
The term "higher secondary" originates from the Indian education system, specifically the state of West Bengal. In India, the school education system is typically divided into stages, with "secondary" referring to the stage after primary education. "Higher secondary" refers to the two years of education following secondary school, typically undertaken between the ages of 16 and 18.
The etymology of the term itself comes from the English language, as it combines the words "higher" and "secondary". "Higher" implies an advanced or elevated level of education, while "secondary" denotes the stage of education following primary school. The term "higher secondary" is commonly used in India and some other countries with similar education systems influenced by the British model.
