Evaluation of the Pilot Implementation of the Work and Technology Education and Learning Package for the Sixth Grade of Elementary School

Background and Purpose:  One of the key responsibilities of policymakers is the evaluation of curricula. This study evaluated the pilot implementation of the sixth-grade Work and Technology learning package.
 Methods: This research employed a mixed-methods approach (quantitative and qualitative). Data were collected using classroom observation, interviews, questionnaires, and focus groups involving 46 teachers, 92 students, 46 administrators, 94 parents, and 44 classrooms from settings across seven provinces. The research tools focused on assessing the curriculum''s objectives, alignment with students'' physical and cognitive abilities, feasibility of the proposed teaching-learning methods, applicability of the planned evaluation methods, quality of the learning package components, teachers'' competencies and training needs, and the effectiveness of the teacher training package.
Findings: The results revealed that students achieved the 70% benchmark in 9 objectives (sensory reception, generating ideas skills, completing projects tailored to students'' abilities, adhering to project requirements, empathetic and responsible behavior, acquiring basic learning skills, proper utilization of technologies, and product presentation), while they didn’t reach in three other objectives. The learning curriculum materials has shortcomings in terms of specialized and technical vocabulary, activity complexity, conceptual level, and gender dependency. Regarding the feasibility of teaching-learning methods, deficiencies or flaws in instructional design by teachers were observed. In terms of the feasibility of assessment methods, tools such as behavior observation checklists, self-assessment, peer assessment, and work reports were the least utilized among teachers. Concerning the book''s appearance, there were issues related to font size, book cover, book volume, and textual design and writing. Regarding teachers'' competencies and training needs, suggestions such as providing tools, equipment, and resources, time scheduling and time management for implementation, and content revision were proposed.
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Conclusion: The evaluation of the pilot program revealed design flaws that need addressing. The findings of this study can contribute to improving the quality of the Work and Technology curriculum and designing effective training programs for elementary school teachers.