The implementation of the textiles and design : curriculum in Maltese secondary schools

Abstract

With the development of the National Minimum Curriculum (1999) the personality development of the Maltese Secondary School pupil is given utmost importance. Different qualities possessed by the pupil are sought and exercised through different subjects in the curriculum. Creativity is one of these aspects, which is manifested is subjects with hands on content such as Textiles and Design. Textiles and Design pupils are assessed through coursework carried out during the scholastic year requiring pupils' as well as teachers' creativity in the production of original creations. Particular teaching strategies are also required in the teaching of Textiles and Design, due to the practical component characterizing the subject. Through observation sessions carried out during Textiles and Design lessons, different teaching strategies adopted by teachers were recorded. Form 4 pupils were consulted for facts and opinions about the subject as well as the coursework carried out as part of their course. Teachers were also interviewed to reveal the different resources and teaching styles used in the teaching of Textiles and Design. A limited variety of resources used for the teaching of Textiles and Design was recorded. Pupils reported a variety of research sources used and also gave different suggestions for the improvement in teaching of Textiles and Design. Conclusions and suggestions were drawn from the data collected in the study.