Arab Educational Information Network

In 2002 based on low achievement in international tests, Qatar’s leadership called for an examination and of the public school system (K-12). Based on the results, Qatar launched a massive educational reform titled Education for a New Era. The reform included developing international standards for curriculum, national tests based on the international standards and the establishment of independent schools where parents could choose what schools their children attend based on annual school report cards. As with all reforms, the implementation has created various challenges. Hence, the purpose of this study is to identify the key challenges emerging from Qatar’s educational reform from the perspectives of principals, parents and teachers. The study-utilized survey research gathering biographical information and included fifty questions addressing philosophy of education, curriculum, language of instruction and issues regarding the financial and administrative systems. The findings indicated the reform was hurried and lacked a clear philosophy to guide the reform. Informants indicated there is a lack of community ownership, the curriculum lacks important cultural and historical knowledge and does not represent Qatari nationality. Furthermore, informants reported the language of instruction should be Arabic and the reform should be developed using the knowledge and experiences of principals, teachers and parents who experience the educational challenges and problems. (Published Abstract)