(University of the Free State, 2009) Blignaut, Sylvan
English: This article reviews the literature on educational change and investigates the complex
nature of putting educational ideas into practice. It also sheds light on the
similarity between the intended and the implemented curriculum by arguing that
a preoccupation with two conventional models of curriculum implementation has
foiled meaningful classroom practice. An alternative model that could significantly
enhance our understanding of implementation is suggested. Focusing on why and
how teachers’ understanding of curriculum policy is critical to the translation of
policy into practice, alternative ways in which policy might be conceived, developed
and put into practice are considered.