A A Study on the Development Process and Effects of Using a Competency-based Curriculum in Schools at Basic Education Level

บทคัดย่อ

The purposes of this study were to examine the development process and effects of using
a competency-based school curriculum and study the supporting factors and obstacles in the development and use of the competency-based curriculum in 40 pilot primary educational institutions. Data collection tools were used, including questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions. The key factors necessary before implementing the competency-based curriculum are: 1) the teachers’ preparedness to understand the importance of the competency-based curriculum; 2) the availability of resources including experts’ consultation and various data sources; and 3) the conformity with the needs of learners in the local context and community. The most important factors in the process of developing and implementing the competency-based curriculum are: 1) the academic leadership of educational institutions administrators; and 2) teachers’ knowledge and understanding of curriculum development and competency-based education management. After implementing the competency-based curriculum in primary schools, teachers have gained: 1) a better understanding of the learning management process and students' competencies development; and 2) the capability to adjust their roles by providing opportunities to learners to develop their potential according to their aptitudes. In addition, the level of parents’ satisfaction has increased since they have seen their children enjoy learning better. Finally, a perceived success of an educational institutions staff and administrators is the learners can apply their competencies in their real lives in the context of their local community.