Education and Curricula within the Context of Social Change and Globalization: A Conceptual Analysis

Throughout history, virtually every society has been undergoing change fast or slowly because of the changes or developments occurring in social, economic, cultural, technological and political areas. Education systems, programs and processes have been also affected by these changes. In this study, a conceptual analysis of education and curriculum was made within the framework of social change, and according to the theoretical data obtained from related literature the likely effects of social change on education and curriculum was examined in addition to on social, economic, cultural and political lives of the societies. While the changes occurring in the social field forcing education and curricula to change with the globalization and society is aimed to change and develop in the direction of national and international values, qualifications and competencies through curricula. Especially people, who are with target group of the curricula, and needs, interests, expectations and problems of the community should be analyzed within the framework of needs analysis and should be reflected in the curricula. In the process of designing and developing a curriculum, understanding and values such as adoption and development of social and cultural values of society, respect for human rights and diversity and tolerance, empathy, cooperation, solidarity etc. should be taken into account as well as the qualifications to provide individuals to have the basic knowledge, skills and competencies required by today's information society and globalization.