This focus on core subjects and values like patriotism is intended to improve learning outcomes and ensure students master foundational knowledge.
As the Matatag Curriculum begins its phased rollout in School Year 2024-2025, one key question arises: Are Filipino students and teachers ready?
The new curriculum, designed to decongest learning and focus on essential skills like literacy, numeracy, and socio-emotional development, aims to streamline the number of competencies compared to the previous system. This focus on core subjects and values like patriotism is intended to improve learning outcomes and ensure students master foundational knowledge.
The success of this reform, however, will largely depend on the preparedness of both students and educators.
To support the transition, preparatory actions done by the Department of Education (DepEd) has allocated P1.5 billion for teacher training and knowledge transfer, targeting 200,000 educators to ensure effective implementation. Despite this substantial investment, concerns remain regarding the timeliness and adequacy of this training.
The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) has raised alarm about the 30% increase in teachers’ workloads, which could put additional strain on an already overburdened workforce. Teachers are already managing large class sizes and limited resources, and this increase in workload could make it more difficult to successfully implement the curriculum, potentially compromising its effectiveness.
Additionally, there are ongoing issues with classroom shortages and a lack of sufficient educational materials, which may worsen with the introduction of the new curriculum. The shortage of classrooms in many areas already causes overcrowding, and without adequate infrastructure, these issues could deepen.
Furthermore, extended school hours, a component of the new structure, have raised concerns about their potential negative impact on students’ safety, health, and well-being, particularly in areas with inadequate facilities.
In terms of student readiness, the emphasis on foundational skills like literacy and numeracy is seen as a positive step.
However, the success of this focus depends on providing students with the necessary support, including adequate resources and access to trained educators. Without these essential elements, the curriculum’s objectives may not be fully realized.
Ultimately, while the Matatag Curriculum offers a more focused educational approach, its true success will hinge on effective execution and support for both students and teachers throughout the transition
