A Whole New World

Since 2020, (pre & post Covid), there's been so much chat about 'The Ugandan New Curriculum'. October 2024 is the first outing & sighting of the new style O' level papers, therefore a cause for considerable apprehension, speculation and relief. For decades, education was purely dominated by the 'chalk & talk' lecture method ie. one teacher talking to a 'speak when you're spoken to' class of 100+.

Therefore, this new curriculum is a Very. Big. Deal. S4 are the pioneer exam class. However, embracing the new teaching/exam style is a real culture change for students, teachers and school management. How?

P    Practical; Problem-Solving with Presentations from the Students

I      Interactive & Interesting teaching - with great emphasis on Internet use

O    Only One paper for most subjects; the 'One Take approach' is your only chance

N     New techniques: Online Research, Projectors, Screens & Media

E     Evaluation of coursework over 4 years; Each student responsible for their own learning

E     Extremely Expensive for WTA to manage; Equipment (books/internet) & Eventually, smaller classes

R     Research is IN, Rote-Learning is OUT!  Rethinking problems in a critical way

S     SmallGroup learning is integral to most lessons; 'Spoonfeeding' Students no longer works

scenario-based questions

In a nutshell, to summarise, in conclusion, and finally, (all suggested ways to conclude your essay, on p31 of the S4 English Revision Pack), the new curriculum and exam format are part of a whole new phase of learning in Uganda. It's definitely here to stay, but there are still many issues to iron out. In theory, it's been in circulation since 2020, but still a huge adjustment for many; more change & acceptance still needs to happen. But it still is a new era and a good one too. 

 The best use of an old paper - a 'zero-waste chapatti wrap. Reusing & recycling educational resources!