The inclusion of culture in the primary second cycle curriculum materials the case of benishangul-gumuz Regional state
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Date
2009-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The main purpose o.lthis study was to investigate the practices and challenges to include the
local cultural values, traditions and skills in the upper primary education curriculum
materials of Benishangul-Gumuz Regional Stale. To accomplish its purpose the study
employed case study design one of the qualitative research traditions. The major data sources
for the study were: curricular materials, regional curriculum experts, textbook
writers/reviewers, woerda education officers, teachers and students. Seven curriculum
experts, five textbook writers, five primary school teachers, two woreda education officials
and two groups of sludents Fom two elementary schools, each group having seven members
were included in the sludy. All respondents of this sludy were purposefully included in the
study. The data gathering instruments were interview, textual analysi~ and focus group
discussion. The dala obtained were described and interpreted qualitatively in light of the
available literatures. The results of the study revealed that most of the informants held the
view that cultural values, traditions and customs of the society, in which education to serve
should be the source of the curriculum content. However, they have heterogeneous view on
the type and scope o.l the cultural issues to be included in the curriculum materials. It was
also found Qut thaI Ihe majority of professionals in charge of the curriculum development
process lack adequate knowledge, skills, and commitment. Although, efforts have been made
to incorporate local cultural issues in the curriculum materials allot is remain to make the
materials relevant to the regional realities. Moreover, the attention paid to produce culturally
responsive curriculum material by the concerned bodies was minimal.
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