Main Article Content
Analyzing curriculum materials for the inclusion of contemporary geographic issues: A focus on grade nine geography textbook in Ethiopia
Abstract
The primary objective of this study was to investigate the extent to which contemporary geographic issues are integrated into the Grade 9 textbook. To gather data, the study examined Grade 9 Geography textbook and involved Grade 9 students and Geography teachers as participants. Data were collected through document analysis and key informant interview. To analyze data, a combination of quantitative and qualitative analysis methods was employed. The results revealed that the textbook addressed important topics such as population growth, environmental degradation, pollution, deforestation, and soil erosion. However, these issues were primarily presented in terms of knowledge acquisition, with limited emphasis on developing students' attitudes, skills, and active engagement with these geographic challenges. Consequently, the study underscores the need for curriculum designers and textbook writers to incorporate relevant themes, objectives, and activities that promote not only knowledge but also the attitudes, skills, and engagement necessary to address contemporary geographic issues.