In
a broad sense, the curriculum development process includes the design,
development, implementation and evaluation of curricula. However, as one
examines the process more closely it becomes evident that each component may
itself comprise several varied but inter-related activities. The Curriculum
Development is charged with the responsibility to operationalise the Curriculum
Development Process. Accordingly, the work of the division may be more
adequately described as designing, developing, implementing, monitoring,
evaluating and reviewing curricula that are appropriate and relevant to the
needs and interests of a developing nation, such as ours.
The Curriculum Development Process
The
following is a brief description of these various activities involved in the
development of curriculum materials:
Design:
This
involves all the preliminary work that is carried out to ensure that the curriculum
is relevant, appropriate and workable. At this stage, the curriculum is
conceptualized and attention is paid to arrangement of the varied components.
Considerations include the focus on the philosophical underpinnings, goals,
objectives, subject matter, learning experiences and evaluation ; all
established in consultation with stakeholders. At present, emphasis is being
placed on the learner in curriculum development activities.
Develop:
In
this stage, curriculum development involves planning, construction and the
logical step-by-step procedures used to produce written documents, as well as
print and non-print resource materials. These documents may include vision
statements, goals, standards, performance benchmarks, learning activities and instructional
strategies, interdisciplinary connections, and other integration activities
that guide curriculum implementation.
Implement:
This
is the stage in which all stakeholders become part of the process by making
their contribution to operationalise the curriculum as designed and developed.
The process is managed by the officers of the Curriculum Development Division.
It requires interaction between officers of the division, principals, teachers,
parents, students and the general public, all key in the education of the
child. Since implementation is a change activity, the Curriculum Development
Division also engages in in-service teacher education through seminars and
workshops to facilitate the required alteration of individuals' knowledge,
skills and attitude
Monitor:
This
can be seen as part of the implementation process. It is at this stage that
officers visit schools to verify that classroom practice is consistent with the
established goals and objectives of the national curriculum. Data is gathered
to inform policy and decision making relative to the curriculum. The monitoring
activities also capture best practices for generalization and develop the
working relationship between officers of the Curriculum Division and school
personnel, allowing for technical support at the school level to be provided
where needed.
Evaluate:
At
this stage, officers engage in analyzing data collected on the field to
determine the effectiveness of the curriculum design and its implementation as
they relate to the child. The process entails comprehensive study of the data
with the view of identifying possible deficiencies and root causes that can lead
to corrective action. It is the findings from this exercise that directly
influence the final stage of review.
Review:
The
information gained from data analysis is used to guide appropriate adjustments
to the curriculum documents. Such adjustments incorporate the strengths and
address any apparent weakness of the implemented curriculum. Because of
technological developments and the resulting ease with which new information
can be shared, continuously evolving curriculum is now possible. Updates, links
to resource material and successful teaching and learning experiences can be
easily incorporated in curricula. These considerations are all geared towards
curriculum improvement and improved student performance in meeting national,
developmental and educational goals.
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