Focusing Curriculum Alignment to Enhance Student Learning Outcomes: Implications for English Language Teachers at Secondary Level

Abstract

This study was aimed to know the perception of secondary school English language teachers regarding curriculum alignment pattern between three components; written SLOs documented in the National Curriculum 2006, teaching practices, and assessment techniques. A qualitative research design was used and 20 English language teachers from the Federal Directorate of Education, Islamabad were selected. Due to the saturation point only 12 participants (M=7, F=5) were interviewed. The interviews were transcribed, categorized and then thematically analyzed. Three main themes and eight sub-themes emerged. The main themes stressed the need to Understand curriculum alignment in terms of the English language, focus curriculum alignment at the instructional level, and align assessment with given student learning outcomes. It was found that teachers are not trained in using written curriculum document. Additionally, it was reported that equal representation was not given to four areas of language i.e., writing, speaking, listening and reading. It was, therefore, recommended that teacher training programs may be initiated to train teacher on the use of written curriculum documents and help them understand the importance of written curriculum with classroom teaching and assessments. Moreover, it is suggested to provide adequate resources to the teachers for effective implementation of written curriculum and enhancement of students learning outcomes.