An Evaluation of the Effectiveness of New Primary Religious Culture and Ethical Knowledge Curriculum in Practice

In this study, the opinions of teachers have been evaluated regarding the implementation and effectiveness of new primary Religious Culture and Ethical Knowledge Curriculum which was put into practice in the 2006-2007 academic years. The data obtained from 20 teachers working in state schools in Istanbul through interviews were analyzed through qualitative research methods. The findings of study have been presented within the frame of some dimensions. According to the findings of the study, we can briefly mention the following as a conclusion about the effectiveness of the new curriculum: Although the teachers generally have positive attitudes toward curriculum, they mention some issues regarding its practice. The teachers' minds are not clear about the applicability of the constructivist approach in these lessons and the curriculum does not provide a satisfactory point of view. The claim of theological approach in the curriculum is not completely applicable. Although objectives and attainments have been seen adequate by teachers, they have indicated partial success in practice. There are some topics and units which do not respond to students' interest, needs and levels. The teachers generally have satisfaction of teaching-learning process of the curriculum, but materials and activity samples are not seen adequate by them. Alternative measurement and assessment methods have been considered significant, but in practice, they have not been preferred by most teachers.