The synergy project : the creation and implementation of a curriculum programme in Maltese primary schools

Abstract

In 1997 an innovative curriculum programme entitled 'The Synergy Project' was set up by the Curriculum Division (Education Division). The Project upholds values and themes congruent to those underlying the National Minimum Curriculum (NMC) (1999). It endorses a 'holistic' education and particularly in the primary sector, identifies theme teaching as the ideal pedagogy. It respects the diversity of the individual and believes that creativity and hands-on activities help children with different needs, attitudes and abilities to acquire the essential skills. Synergy Teams were appointed to assist primary school teachers in implementing the Project. And the Team members have never ceased doing so. However, notwithstanding the fact that teachers unanimously acclaim that the Project is beneficial to the child, and notwithstanding that quite some energy and human resources are being engaged in the propagation of the Project, it somehow appears that . to date only a minority 'pursues this curricular programme. This research investigates to what extent the pedagogy has been adopted in the primary sector and identifies the reasons why certain teachers decide to omit it. The author conducted a longitudinal research programme during which she observed the Team members conducting the Synergy Day Programme in 17 schools, recorded their interactions with pupils and administered questionnaires to 31 class teachers. Furthermore by examining the intrinsic values of the Project in the light of the NMC the study validates the good practice of the few. All indications seem to conclude that the Project, as it is constituted today, needs to be revamped in order to attract more teachers. The proposed 'new' Synergy Project as devised by the author is highly recommended for the teacher who seeks self-fulfillment in providing the child with a worthwhile and effective learning programme.