Program development at the college

Abstract

Curriculum is at the heart of learning at all educational levels. Elementary and secondary curricula are developed by the Ministère de l’Éducation, du Loisir et du Sport, whereas university programs are developed by Quebec universities. As for college study programs, they fall under various authorities: the institutional evaluation policies and the Commission d’évaluation de l’enseignement collégial, and they are implemented by each college. In addition, we should point out that since the Renewal, these programs have one distinctive feature: they are based on competencies and standards. Whether developing pre-university or technical programs, colleges establish learning pathways relatively independently. In that regard, they rely on various expertise (teachers, professionals and administration) and scientific researchers. This issue of the College Documentation Bulletin compiles helpful research references to provide support when developing study programs at the college-level. Specifically, it focuses on research work promoting a competency-based approach when developing college study programs.