Identifying the Professional Qualifications of Curriculum Consultants for Working in Elementary Schools
Subject Areas :
Kurosh Fathi Vajargah
1
*
,
Fateme Yadegari
2
1 - Professor of Curriculum Studies, Shahid Beheshti University
2 - Master's student in curriculum planning at Shahid Beheshti University
Keywords: synthesis study, professional competencies, elementary education, curriculum consultants, curriculum consultation,
Abstract :
In contemporary education systems, curriculum consultants play a critical role in enhancing the quality of teaching and learning at the elementary level. Despite the significance of this role, previous research indicates persistent challenges in the professional competencies of consultants and the problems they are able to solve. This study aims to present a synthesis of existing research on the identification of curriculum consultants’ professional competencies, as well as the problems and challenges they encounter in elementary schools. To achieve this objective, a systematic synthesis was conducted by reviewing Persian and English studies published within the past 10 years. Relevant studies were identified using keywords such as curriculum consultation, curriculum planning consultants, and curriculum design consultation and 21 studies were selected and analyzed based on Petticrew and Roberts’ six-step synthesis model. The synthesis study identified five dimensions comprising 21 components: (1) curriculum design and development (6 components), (2) teacher support and professional development (6 components), (3) instructional strategies (2 components), (4) support and coordination (5 components), and (5) assessment and evaluation (2 components). The challenges faced by curriculum consultants were categorized into five dimensions encompassing 10 components (2 per dimension). The findings provide a foundation for designing training programs, improving professional standards, and strengthening the role of curriculum consultants in improving the quality of education in elementary schools. The study underscores the significance of professional development and capacity enhancement for curriculum consultants to effectively address the complex demands of educational environments.
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