How is the Learning Outcomes Framework Responding to an Internationalised School Culture in Primary Schools in Malta?

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.62695/CTVI1023

Keywords:

Primary education, Outcomes-based education, Multicultural education, Internationalisation, Malta

Abstract

The Maltese education system is experiencing a revolutionary reform in the way the teaching and learning process is designed at all levels, including primary schooling. As of 2018, the island has started shifting from a content-based to an outcomes-based system, referred to as the introduction, or better, the enactment of the Learning Outcomes Framework (2015). The LOF is being promoted as a way to decentralize teaching and give schools the autonomy to develop their own learning programmes. This structure is in line and has been assembled to support the National Curriculum Framework (2012). Since the LOF is the first curriculum framework to be introduced in Malta since its membership in the EU in 2004, it is also devised to reflect other policy documents issued by the EU. This paper explains how the LOF reflects such documents and determines ways how the LOF is responding to internationalisation present in primary schools in Malta. A literature review of the current field scenario is presented. This is followed by an in-depth analysis of recent local policy developments and current practices which reflect how the enactment of the LOF in Malta is contributing to multicultural climates. The results indicate that although objectives are set, many are still not understanding why the enactment of the LOF, and how this promotes internationalisation in Malta. Further provision of professional training to educators and other stakeholders in primary schools, further support to schools, and proper engagement of all students are recommended to reach the set objectives.

Author Biography

Heathcliff Schembri, Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology

Heathcliff Schembri is Head of Department (Curriculum) at the Migrant Learners’ Unit within MEDE. He holds a B.Ed in Primary Education and an M.A. from the University of Malta, and is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of East Anglia focusing on curriculum changes in Maltese primary schools. Previously he worked for 11 years as a Support Teacher and Classroom Teacher in primary schools in Malta. Heathcliff is the Malta Ambassador for the Europeana project by European Schoolnet and the President of the local NGO Right2Smile. He is a visiting lecturer at the Institute for Education, University of Malta and MCAST.

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Published

16-09-2020

How to Cite

Schembri, H. (2020). How is the Learning Outcomes Framework Responding to an Internationalised School Culture in Primary Schools in Malta?. Malta Journal of Education, 1(1), 106–132. https://doi.org/10.62695/CTVI1023

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