Barriers to successful curriculum implementation persist because policymakers consistently overlook the critical implementation phase; an oversight that is particularly detrimental in Global South contexts, where these challenges are most profound. This marginalization of the implementation phase leads to a disconnect between policy intention and classroom realities (Orafi, and Borg, 2009). The purpose of this qualitative case study therefore is to explore the barriers to implementing the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) Communication Studies syllabus, an externally mandated change in the Global South, focusing specifically on teachers’ perspectives. It is intended that this study will contribute to the scant local literature on the implementation change process. Furthermore, the perspectives shared by teachers can shape curriculum policy and inform practical strategies to support successful implementation of CAPE Communication Studies. The methods of data collection consisted of classroom observations, and semi-structured interviews with teachers across multiple schools. Additionally, field notes, a reflective journal and documents were also utilized. Data analysis followed a thematic approach. The findings reveal that barriers to implementing the CAPE Communication Studies syllabus emanated from contextual challenges, systemic issues, factors related to the innovation itself, and leadership-related factors. For curriculum changes to be implemented successfully, it is critical that curriculum developers address the complexities of the implementation phase. This requires skillful planning that recognizes and responds to anticipated challenges that could influence the implementation process.

Authors:
Sharmila Nisha Harry, University of the West Indies, St Augustine Campus, Trinidad and Tobago

About the Presenter(s)
DR Sharmila Nisha Harry, Lecturer Curriculum Studies and Teacher Education. Research interests include educational change and curriculum leadership, curriculum development, design and implementation, and cross disciplinary studies.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Wednesday Schedule

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