BASIC PRINCIPLES AND FOUNDATIONS OF CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

Curriculum development is a structured process that determines the direction and quality of educational implementation. This article examines the fundamental principles of curriculum development including relevance, flexibility, effectiveness, efficiency, continuity, and integration alongside its conceptual foundations, which encompass philosophical, psychological, sociological, and scientific aspects. This study employs a literature review method by analyzing relevant academic sources. The findings indicate that curriculum principles and foundations are inseparable, as the foundations provide theoretical orientation while the principles guide practical application in the field. The study also identifies several implementation barriers, such as limited teacher competence, inadequate learning facilities, resistance to change, weak understanding of curriculum concepts, students’ socioeconomic constraints, and inconsistent educational policies. This article highlights the importance of developing a comprehensive, adaptive, and needs-based curriculum to enhance the overall quality of education.