Challenges Encountered in the Implementation of the MATATAG Curriculum

This study is a timely and relevant investigation into the implementation challenges of the MATATAG Curriculum within the Philippine elementary education context. It employed a descriptive-correlational research design to identify the challenges encountered by elementary teachers in the implementation of the MATATAG Curriculum at Sultan Naga Dimaporo Memorial Integrated School (SNDMIS) during the academic year 2024–2025. A key strength of the study is its use of a descriptive-correlational approach, which appropriately combined the descriptive analysis of implementation challenges with the examination of relationships between demographic variables and curriculum-related issues. The respondents consisted of thirty-one (31) elementary faculty members who were directly involved in curriculum implementation, ensuring that the data gathered were grounded in actual classroom experiences. A validated survey questionnaire was used to gather data on teacher-related, school-related, and system-related challenges, as well as the interventions employed to address them. The study utilized frequency and percentage distribution, weighted mean, and Pearson correlation to analyze the data. Findings revealed that teachers encountered moderate to high levels of challenges, particularly in adapting instructional strategies, managing limited resources, and balancing curriculum demands with time constraints. Interventions commonly implemented included collaborative lesson planning, peer mentoring, and localized instructional adaptations. The analysis further showed no significant relationship between teachers’ demographic profile (age, gender, subject taught, and years of teaching) and the challenges encountered, or interventions implemented. These results suggest that curriculum-related difficulties are systemic rather than individual in nature. The study concludes that continuous professional development, adequate resource allocation, and strengthened administrative support are essential to achieving the goals of the MATATAG Curriculum. Moreover, fostering teacher collaboration and contextualizing instructional practices can enhance effective curriculum delivery and sustainability.

MATATAG Curriculum, Implementation Challenges, Teacher, Descriptive- Correlational Research

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