Representation of Education 4.0 Competencies in Science Teaching: An Analysis of Türkiye’s 2024 Curriculum

Competencies in Science Teaching

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Abstract

This study aims to examine the extent to which the learning outcomes in Türkiye’s 2024 Science Curriculum are represented within the framework of Education 4.0, as defined by the World Economic Forum (WEF, 2020). The analysis focuses on four core content dimensions: Global Citizenship, Innovation and Creativity, Technology, and Interpersonal Skills. Employing a document analysis method, the study evaluates the learning outcomes both quantitatively and qualitatively. Findings reveal that only 55 out of 182 outcomes (30.2%) are directly related to Education 4.0 competencies. These outcomes are primarily concentrated around limited themes such as environmental awareness, design, and physical systems, while essential contemporary skills like digital literacy, interdisciplinary creativity, and interpersonal interaction are largely underrepresented. Moreover, the integration of Education 4.0 dimensions across grade levels is uneven, with some grades displaying minimal representation. The results offer significant insights into how Education 4.0 skills are incorporated into science education in Türkiye. They also provide valuable recommendations for developing countries seeking to modernize their science curricula in alignment with 21st-century skills. The findings are expected to inform curriculum developers, teacher educators, and policymakers working toward educational reform.

Keywords: Education 4.0; Science Education; Learning Outcomes; 2024 Curriculum; 21st Century Skills

Author Biographies

Haluk Yılmaz, Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University

Haluk Yılmaz is a PhD candidate in Science Education at Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University, Türkiye. His research interests include Education 4.0, educational technologies, digital transformation in teacher education, and 21st-century skills. He currently works as a lecturer under the Rectorate of Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University. He is an active member of several academic networks.

Mehmet Tunçel, Faculty of Education, Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University,

Prof. Dr. Mehmet Tunçel is the Head of the Department of Mathematics and Science Education at the Faculty of Education, Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University. His research interests include chemistry, science teaching, and teacher education. He teaches a range of undergraduate and graduate-level courses and has published extensively in the field of science education. He is affiliated with several national and international academic platforms.

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Published

2025-09-01

Issue

Vol. 17 No. 3 (2025): CURRENT ISSUE

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Articles

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