Curriculum Development in Singapore and Turkey: Reflections of Administrative Structure and Educational Reforms

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the curriculum development process in Singapore and Turkey comparatively regarding administrative structure and educational reforms. As a qualitative descriptive research, this comparative study is expected to contribute to evaluation of possible strengths and weaknesses of the two countries in curriculum development and support the adoption of effective policies and practices by policymakers. Considering the purpose of the study, the data were collected through document analysis. Content analysis was utilized to analyze qualitative data gathered from the official documents and research reports. Results revealed similarities and differences in terms of centralized approach, administrative units and their missions in Singapore and Turkey with respect to administrative structure of curriculum development. Regarding the reflections of educational reforms on curriculum development process and policies, it was found that although the educational reforms were implemented for similar purposes in the two countries, the way of implementation and sustainability demonstrated considerable differences in terms of conditions such as planning, delivery, timing and monitoring. It is recommended that regulations should be made in Turkey such as establishing research mechanisms to systematically study on the integration of curriculum policy and practice to fill in the gap between them.