The Structure and Function of Curriculum Development Units: An OECS Case Study

Abstract

Using questionnaires and interviews, the study sought factual information and views about the functioning of curriculum development units in five Eastern Caribbean territories, targetting persons involved in curriculum development and educational management as well as some stakeholders. Few structures constituting well developed CDUs were found and organization was generally loose with inadequate specialist staff and physical facilities. All concentrated heavily on primary education. Those CDUs eliciting highest ratings for effectiveness were not necessarily the best organized, or the most adequately supplied with human or physical resources. Effectiveness seemed to depend heavily on a cadre of highly committed individuals functioning in multiple capacities and, thus, appeared to have carried a high cost in terms of individual work loads.