Curriculum implementation generally relies on effective communication
among important stakeholders of the school: management, teachers, learners, and
parents. Curriculum implementation was defined by Ornstein and Hunkins (2004) as a
process which involves time and efficient people as well as positive interaction and
communication to implement an effective curriculum. Successful curriculum
implementation takes time because this lengthy stage involves winning over people.
Effective curriculum implementation is a two-way street, or a two-way communication
channel both formal and informal types (Ornstein and Hunkins, 2004). Curriculum
developers must seek the best mode of communication that is both lateral and
horizontal to ensure that the message gets delivered to all concerned groups without
distortions.
In order for curriculum to be effectively implemented, teachers who are the
most direct implementer need to be trained. Ornstein and Hunkins (2004) pointed out
that one problem in curriculum implementation resulted from teachers lacking a deep
understanding of what a curriculum is and how it is created. As teachers are the key in
implementing the curriculum, it is essential for school management to train and make
clear understanding of the school curriculum. Lack of total understanding and correct
information will lead to negative feedback from both learners and parents which are
stakeholders of the institution. The most effective way to rapidly make teachers feel
comfortable with the curriculum is by in-service training or staff development.
In brief, curriculum implementation involves two main processes in effective
communication among stakeholders, followed by significance of teacher training
programs. In this study, the researcher would like to adopt the definition of curriculum
implementation after Ornstein and Hunkins (2004).