Tag Archives: Curriculum Evaluation and Curriculum Change

Congruence-Contingency Model of curriculum evaluation

The congruence-contingency model of curriculum evaluation is a qualitative approach to evaluation that was developed by Robert Stake in 1975. The model is based on the assumption that curriculum evaluation should be focused on determining the extent to which the curriculum is congruent with the needs of the students and the context in which it is being implemented.

According to him, formal procedures will help increase the objectivity in evaluation. They aim at furnishing data, we can make descriptions and judgements of the curriculum being evaluated. Stake argues that for evaluation purposes, we should not rely only on the statements of objectives aims. We should allow all those ‘affected’ by the curriculum to extensively participate in judging the curriculum.

He further maintains that the data can be collected under the following three bodies of information.

I. Antecedent: This is any condition that exists prior to teaching and learning that may influence the outcomes. For example, prior knowledge, aptitudes, psychological profiles of students, etc., years of experience of teachers, teacher- behaviour, etc.

2. Transactions: Learning transactions that occur between and among teachers and students, students and students and among students and resource people.

3. .Outcomes: These are the consequences of education – immediate and long-range, cognitive and conative, personal and community-wide. For example, students’ performance, achievements, etc. Stake, however, lays stress on even such outcomes as the impact of a new programme on teachers’ perception of their competence.

The term contingencies here refer to the relationships among the variables in three categories: antecedents, transactions and outcomes. Once the evaluator collects views on a curriculum from various sources like students, teachers, support staff, etc., he puts them on a matrix to identify the congruencies and contingencies among them. The model clearly shows that it provides an organizational framework that points to the data to be considered and compares what is planned and what has occurred.

Here are some of the advantages of the congruence-contingency model:

  • It is a qualitative approach, which means that it takes into account the subjective experiences of the students and the teachers.
  • It is a comprehensive approach, which means that it considers all aspects of the curriculum.
  • It is a flexible approach, which means that it can be adapted to different types of curriculums and different contexts.

Here are some of the disadvantages of the congruence-contingency model:

  • It can be time-consuming and expensive to implement.
  • It requires a high level of expertise to use effectively.
  • It can be difficult to get all stakeholders involved in the evaluation process.

Overall, the congruence-contingency model is a valuable tool for educators who want to ensure that their curriculum is meeting the needs of their students. It is a comprehensive and flexible approach that can be used to evaluate all aspects of the curriculum.

Also Read: Approaches of Curriculum Evaluation

Congruence-Contingency Model of curriculum evaluation
Congruence-Contingency Model of curriculum evaluation

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Metfessel-Michael Model of Curriculum Evaluation

The Metfessel-Michael Model of curriculum evaluation is a goal-oriented model that was developed in 1967 by Norman Metfessel and James Michael. The model is based on the assumption that curriculum evaluation should be focused on determining whether or not the curriculum is achieving its goals. It is a variation of the Tylerian model.

The Metfessel-Michael Model consists of these steps(major 8 steps):

  1. Involve the participants and Identify the goals of the curriculum or formulate the objectives.
  2. Translate the goals into specific, measurable objectives and content and experience.
  3. Develop assessment instruments and methodology to carry out the evaluation.
  4. Carry out observations and collect data on student achievement of the objectives.
  5. Analyze the data and compare student achievement to the objectives.
  6. Interpret the data to make judgments about the extent to which the curriculum is achieving its goals.
  7. Use the results of the evaluation to make decisions about the curriculum and make recommendations.
  8. Repeat the evaluation process on a regular basis.

The Metfessel-Michael Model is a comprehensive and systematic approach to curriculum evaluation. It is a useful tool for educators who want to ensure that their curriculum is meeting the needs of their students.

Here are some of the advantages of the Metfessel-Michael Model:

  • It is a goal-oriented model, which means that it is focused on determining whether or not the curriculum is achieving its goals.
  • It is a systematic approach, which means that it follows a step-by-step process.
  • It is comprehensive, which means that it considers all aspects of the curriculum.
  • It is flexible, which means that it can be adapted to different types of curriculums.

Here are some of the disadvantages of the Metfessel-Michael Model:

  • It can be time-consuming and expensive to implement.
  • It requires a high level of expertise to use effectively.
  • It can be difficult to get all stakeholders involved in the evaluation process.

Overall, the Metfessel-Michael Model is a valuable tool for educators who want to ensure that their curriculum is meeting the needs of their students. It is a comprehensive and systematic approach that can be used to evaluate all aspects of the curriculum.

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Metfessel-Michael Model of Curriculum Evaluation

Also Read: Sources of Curriculum design

Approaches to Curriculum Evaluation

Approaches of Curriculum Evaluation can be categorized into various types:

Scientistic and Humanistic Approach

Cronbach (1 982) has identified two approaches to evaluation – the scientistic ideals approach and the humanistic ideals approach. The scientistic end advocates experimentation and the humanistic end does not have faith in experimentation.

The scientistic approach and the humanistic approach are two different ways of evaluating curriculum. Here are some of the key differences between them:

  1. Focus: The scientistic approach focuses on measurable outcomes, such as test scores and academic achievement. The humanistic approach focuses on the personal and social dimensions of learning, such as critical thinking, communication skills, and personal values.
  2. Methodology: The scientistic approach uses quantitative data and statistical analysis to evaluate the curriculum. The humanistic approach uses qualitative data and subjective feedback, such as interviews and observations.
  3. Values: The scientistic approach values objectivity, control, and predictability. The humanistic approach values subjectivity, empathy, and personal experience.
  4. Goals: The scientistic approach is primarily concerned with academic outcomes and the effectiveness of the curriculum in achieving those outcomes. The humanistic approach is concerned with the personal and social development of learners, as well as their academic achievement.
  5. Outcomes: The outcomes of the scientistic approach are typically focused on academic achievement and the effectiveness of the curriculum in meeting specific learning goals. The outcomes of the humanistic approach are more diverse and may include personal growth, social responsibility, and other non-academic dimensions of learning.

Intrinsic and Pay-off Evaluation:

The intrinsic and pay-off evaluations are two different approaches used in curriculum evaluation to assess the effectiveness of educational programs.

The intrinsic approach focuses on evaluating the curriculum based on its internal components, such as the learning objectives, content, and teaching methods. This approach involves analyzing the curriculum to determine whether it aligns with the goals of the educational institution, whether it is effective in achieving those goals, and whether it provides a meaningful and engaging learning experience for students. The intrinsic evaluation assesses the quality of the curriculum itself and is concerned with the curriculum’s internal validity.

In contrast, the pay-off evaluation assesses the effectiveness of the curriculum based on its external outcomes, such as the success of students in academic or career settings. This approach involves measuring the performance of students who have completed the curriculum and comparing it to the performance of those who have not. The pay-off evaluation focuses on the curriculum’s external validity and its impact on the students’ future lives, such as their academic achievement or job prospects.

The main difference between intrinsic and pay-off evaluation is their focus. Intrinsic evaluation is focused on the internal quality of the curriculum, while pay-off evaluation is focused on the external outcomes of the curriculum. Both approaches have their advantages and limitations, and a comprehensive evaluation of the curriculum should consider both approaches to provide a complete picture of the curriculum’s effectiveness.

Formative and Summative Evaluation:

These are two types of assessments that are commonly used in education, training, and other fields to measure learning outcomes and evaluate the effectiveness of programs or interventions.

Formative is an ongoing process that takes place during the learning or training process. It is designed to provide feedback to learners, teachers, or trainers on their progress and to help identify areas where they need further support or improvement. Formative evaluation is often informal and may involve self-reflection, peer feedback, or teacher feedback. The goal of formative evaluation is to improve learning and promote student success.

On the other hand, summative evaluation is a final assessment that takes place at the end of a learning or training program. Its purpose is to evaluate the overall effectiveness of the program and to determine whether the program’s learning objectives have been achieved. Summative evaluation is often formal and involves assessments such as exams, tests, or project evaluations. The goal of summative evaluation is to measure the success of a program or intervention.

In summary, formative evaluation is ongoing and designed to improve learning, while summative evaluation is a final assessment that measures the overall effectiveness of a program or intervention. Both types of evaluation are important for measuring learning outcomes and evaluating the effectiveness of educational and training programs.

Also Read: Curriculum Development Stages

Approaches of Curriculum Evaluation

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Curriculum Change

Curriculum change refers to the process of modifying, revising, or updating the content, structure, and delivery of a curriculum.

  • Curriculum change is often driven by various factors such as changes in societal needs, advancements in technology, new knowledge and research, and shifts in student demographics and learning styles.
  • The purpose of this is to improve the effectiveness of education and to better align it with the needs of students, society, and the workforce.
  • The process of change involves a thorough analysis of the existing curriculum, identification of the strengths and weaknesses, and the development of a plan for modifying or updating the curriculum.
  • It can be a complex and challenging process that requires the involvement of various stakeholders such as educators, administrators, subject matter experts, students, and parents.
  • Effective change also requires careful planning and implementation, ongoing evaluation, and continuous improvement.
  • There are several models of curriculum change that can be used to guide the process, such as the Lewin’s Change Model, which involves three stages: unfreezing, changing, and refreezing. This model emphasizes the importance of creating a sense of urgency, involving stakeholders, and reinforcing the change to ensure that it becomes part of the new curriculum.

The following are the steps involved in curriculum change:

  1. Needs assessment: It typically begins with an assessment of current needs and an analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the existing curriculum. This may involve data gathering, consultations with stakeholders, and a review of current research and best practices.
  2. Goal setting: Once the needs have been identified, the next step is to establish clear goals and objectives for the It. These goals and objectives should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).
  3. Planning: It requires a well-designed plan that outlines the steps and strategies for implementing the changes. The plan should include a timeline, resources needed, and the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders.
  4. Implementation: The next step is to implement the changes to the curriculum. This may involve the development of new course materials, changes to teaching methods and approaches, and the adoption of new technologies.
  5. Evaluation: It should be evaluated regularly to ensure that it is achieving its goals and objectives. This may involve data gathering, assessments of student learning outcomes, and feedback from stakeholders.
  6. Continuous improvement: Based on the evaluation, the it may need to be revised, modified, or updated to ensure that it remains relevant and effective.

Curriculum change can be a complex and challenging process that requires the involvement of various stakeholders such as educators, administrators, subject matter experts, students, and parents. It also requires careful planning and implementation, ongoing evaluation, and continuous improvement.

Also Read : Factors Influencing Curriculum change

Concept of Curriculum change
Concept of Curriculum Change

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