Teachers' opinions of concepts emphasised in national papers concerning science and technology curriculum

Abstract

This study, which analyses teachers' views of the news items about primary education Science and Technology course curriculum published in the 2004-2007 period, in a sense, questions the applicability of the curriculum. In addition to that, the process of change and improvement of the science and technology course curriculum between 2004-2007 period and 2011 was demonstrated. This is a descriptive study and employs both qualitative and quantitative research methods. The study group was composed through homogeneous sampling, one of the non-random methods of sampling. It was found in consequence that teachers thought most positively of the items concerning themselves, exams/evaluation, and materials; and that they were most negative about parents category. They stated that in terms of students, the curriculum contributed to increasing self-reliance, increasing communication skills, becoming discussing and critically thinking individuals. In terms of the impressions of the curriculum made through news items, teachers described the curriculum mostly as a promising and exciting novelty, as a fundamental change, and change. Crowded classrooms, insufficiency of materials and inappropriate physical conditions were the most emphasised points in the negativeness category in the news items. On the other hand, uncertainties and difficulties in application were emphasised by teachers as secondary importance. © Sila Science.