The Impact of Political and Legal Factors on Curriculum Development in Papua New Guinea (PNG)
1. Explanation of Political/Legal Influence (6 Marks)
In Papua New Guinea (PNG), political and legal factors significantly influence curriculum development due to the intertwining of educational policy with government priorities and laws. Education is seen as a pivotal avenue for national development, which leads the government to enact various policies that dictate the framework, content, and delivery of educational curricula. The National Education Plan (NEP), for example, outlines the vision and goals of the educational system, emphasizing the need for curricula that promote literacy, vocational skills, and cultural awareness. Legislative frameworks, such as the Education Act of 1983, provide a legal basis for the establishment of educational institutions and the guidelines for curriculum formulation.
Political decisions, especially those made by the Education Department and associated bodies, can lead to significant shifts in curriculum direction. For instance, shifts in government administration can result in the prioritization of certain subjects or teaching methods based on the prevailing political ideology. This is evident in the focus on "Values Education," which aligns with national interest for social cohesion and moral development, thus influencing the curriculum to focus more on cultural education and life skills.
2. Examples from PNG (5 Marks)
A pertinent example of the political/legal influence on the curriculum can be seen in the Curriculum Reform Implementation Project (CRIP) initiated in the early 2000s. The government recognized the need for a curriculum that reflects the values, needs, and identities of PNG. This reform was partially a response to calls for an education system that resonates with local cultures rather than merely replicating Western models. Changes instituted through CRIP have resulted in the integration of more culturally relevant materials and indigenous knowledge systems into the curriculum, showcasing how government policies directly affect educational content.
3. Clarity & Structure (4 Marks)
This response is organized into clear sections that address the key components of the question. First, it provides a detailed explanation of how political and legal factors shape curriculum development, supported by references to specific policies and laws. Following this, a relevant example clarifies practical implications. Ultimately, the structure facilitates logical flow and coherence, making it easy to follow the argument presented.
Word Count: 345