RECENT TRENDS IN CURRICULUM AND TEACHING METHODS IN SCIENCE EDUCATION

This study aimed to explore modern trends in the field of curriculum research and science teaching methods. To achieve this aim, the research reviews the literature that is closely related to these trends, with a focus on contemporary Arab and foreign studies during the last ten years. Six main axes are identified that comprehensively represent contemporary global trends in curriculum research and science teaching methods: reform movements in teaching and learning science, modern scientific fields and their various branches, methods and strategies for teaching science, science education technology, evaluation of teaching science, and science teacher preparation. This study provides a complete breakdown of the main thrust of the research trends in each axis, while citing solid studies that reflect these trends. This study also provides a set of practical recommendations for developing curricular research and methods of teaching science, especially in terms of research plans and their specific directions in the Saudi context.