A new math and science curriculum, which integrates critical thinking skills, has been developed for the first and fourth grades, by the National Centre for Curriculum Development (NCCD) in Jordan. Science and mathematics were prioritized in the first phase of curriculum development because international examinations had revealed a significant decline in the achievement of Jordanian students in scientific subjects in recent years (despite reports of slight improvement in PISA 2018).
Jordan’s goal is to work on all curricula for all grades during the next three years. The intention is to shift from the traditional method of learning by textbook memorization to developing students’ analytical and critical thinking skills and creativity. The new curriculum will also focus on the development of students’ communication skills, personal capabilities and values, so that they can express themselves well in all subjects, as well as manage their own learning and work well to others, skills which are considered key to success in the 21st century.
The new curriculum will be piloted this academic year 2019/2020 and refined in response to feedback from teachers. The math and science curriculum will be phased into grades two, five, seven, and ten in 2020/21, grades three, six, eight, and eleven in 2021/2022, and grade 12 in 2022/2023, based on international best practice, to give time for teacher professional development.
Dr Ruba Bataineh
Director of the National Centre for Curriculum Development (NCCD), Jordan
Photo by Hassan Tamimi, The Jordan Times
