July 27, 2024 - The Department of Education (DepEd) has announced a major shakeup in the country's basic education system with the introduction of the MATATAG Curriculum. This blog post dives into the key details of DepEd Order No. 010, s. 2024, outlining the goals, implementation plan, and impact of this exciting new program.
What is the MATATAG Curriculum?
The MATATAG Curriculum, envisioned as a roadmap for fostering "lifelong and peace-loving Filipino learners who are holistic and future-ready," aims to equip students with the skills they need to thrive in the 21st century. It emphasizes:
- 21st-century skills: Preparing students for the evolving job market by nurturing critical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy.
- Global citizenship: Fostering understanding and appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives, preparing students to navigate the interconnected world.
- Future-oriented mindset: Equipping learners with the ability to adapt to change and become active participants in shaping the future.
- Core Values: The curriculum is built around the Filipino values of Maka-Diyos (devotion to God), Makatao (humaneness), Makakalikasan (protection of the environment), and Makabansa (love of country).
Who is Impacted?
The MATATAG Curriculum applies to all public and private schools, state universities and colleges (SUCs), local universities and colleges (LUCs), and Philippine Schools Overseas (PSOs) offering basic education programs.
Implementation Timeline:
The curriculum will be rolled out in phases, starting with Kindergarten, Grades 1, 4, and 7 in the 2024-2025 school year. Grades 2, 3, 5, and 8 will follow suit in the 2025-2026 school year, with Grades 6, 9, and 10 transitioning in 2026-2027. Specific guidelines for Grades 11 and 12 will be issued separately.
Changes to Existing Curriculum:
DepEd Order No. 010, s. 2024 amends DepEd Order No. 021, s. 2019 (Policy Guidelines on the K to 12 Basic Education Program). Annexes 1 and 2, covering Elementary and Secondary education respectively, will be updated to reflect the MATATAG Curriculum implementation schedule.
Benefits for Teachers and Instructional Leaders:
The Order serves as a comprehensive guide for teachers, providing a framework for instructional planning, selecting subject matter, implementing teaching strategies, utilizing learning resources, and applying assessment tools. For instructional leaders, it provides direction for creating supervisory and management plans to oversee the new curriculum's delivery, monitor student progress, and support teachers and school heads.
Where to Find More Information:
For further details, educators and parents can access the DepEd website or contact the Office of the Undersecretary for Curriculum and Teaching through email (ouct@deped.gov.ph) or phone [(02) 8633-7202 or 8687-4146].
The MATATAG Curriculum represents a significant shift in Philippine basic education. This innovative program promises to equip Filipino learners with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to excel in the modern world.