Chemistry curricular knowledge of secondary school teachers

Abstract

the course of this research, we explored the extent of chemistry teachers? professional knowledge related to the structure, contents and application of chemistry curricula and their components. The research comprised 119 teachers from 69 secondary schools (25 grammar schools and 44 vocational secondary schools). The questions in the questionnaire referred to general curriculum knowledge, knowledge of chemistry curriculum and the views/assessments of teachers concerning the necessary changes in the curricula currently in effect. The teachers? answers show that the most important components of the curriculum for their work are the goals and operative tasks/outcomes. The results indicate that there exists information in the curriculum components that remains unused although it is relevant for a certain level of planning. Among the teachers in the sample, higher percentages of those with appropriate teachers training programme were applying information from the curriculum within teaching process through demonstration method and problem solving. The research that was conducted provides a basis for defining the indicators for monitoring the level of teachers? capability to apply curricular knowledge in their practice. Such indicators are important for creating teaching situations and teachers? activities within the framework of initial teacher education and continuing professional development.