This chapter aims to construct a comprehensive framework for conceptualizing and analyzing the nature, scope, and issues of curriculum change and development so as to inform practice and policy-making. In the first part of the chapter, three important concepts, namely, globalization, localization, and individualization, are delineated and then operationalized for improving the relevancy and values of curriculum. The second part presents a new structure of curriculum effectiveness to conceptualize the complex, dynamic relationships among the various essential components of curriculum at the different stages of the teaching and learning processes. Further, some specific recommendations are proposed for studying, developing, and improving multi-level curriculum effectiveness. Finally, the chpater discusses and compares three approaches to developing teacher competence and conducting curriculum change. It is hoped that the comprehensive framework and related concepts are helpful to policy-making and curriculum change and development in Hong Kong and other parts of the world.[Copyright © 2000 The Hong Kong Institute of Education.]
