Curriculum Development in Higher Education in Light of Culture and Religiosity: A Case Study in Aceh of Indonesia

Abstract

This case study investigates the complicated dynamics of curriculum development in Aceh, Indonesia's culturally varied and spiritually significant higher education institutions. This study explores the Aceh higher education curriculum's structural components and pedagogical methods, focusing on Islamic cultural sensitivity and preservation. The study's iterative process comprised semi-structured student and faculty interviews, expert consultations, and stakeholder feedback. This study examines the complex process of creating a localized educational framework that boosts academic achievement, taking culture and religiosity into account. The research underlines the necessity of community involvement and local actors like religious leaders in shaping curriculum content to provide cultural meaning and real-world relevance. The findings shed light on Aceh's unique challenges and opportunities and apply to similar cultural and religious contexts. This study adds to the academic discussion about higher education curriculum development. In particular, it emphasizes the importance of cultural and religious awareness to create an engaging and culturally relevant educational environment.

Keywords

• curriculum development
• higher education
• independent curriculum
• islamic education
• project-based learning