Gaps Between Intended and Implemented Curriculums in Secondary Schools- A Dilemma for Curriculum Developers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Abstract

The main purpose of the study was to find out the gaps between the intended and implemented curriculum in secondary schools of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The research shows that a gap exists between the intended and implemented curriculums, necessitating detection of the reasons, factors, challenges and problems, and thus proposed solutions of the problems. The research objectives were formulated to analyze the key differences between the intended and implemented curriculum in secondary schools, explore teachers’ perspectives on challenges in implementing the curriculum and to identify the factors influencing the implementation. A multiple method qualitative approach comprised of thematic and comparative studies of curriculum documents and an open/semi-open interview were used for a comprehensive understanding of the problems. A purposive sampling technique was used to select sample for the interview. Findings of the study showed that teachers has a clear understanding of intended and implemented curriculum, similarly finding showed that gaps between intended and implemented curriculum is due to lack of teachers’ training on curriculum, relevant teaching methodology and the subject knowledge, besides unavailability of resources, time-constraints, non-observance on students teachers ratio(STR), English as medium of instruction affecting rural areas schools, students’ absenteeism and non-provision of professional teachers. It is recommended that all kinds of soft and hard facilities, comprehensive teachers training, revising contents of English, Mathematics and Science as required and boosting poor students through scholarships, thereby enabling the curriculum to be aligned for effective and successful implementation in the field.