Ph.D. Research Proposal on 21st Century Skills in Mathematics Curricula

The Deanship of Graduate Studies at the Main Center of the University held an academic seminar session at the College of Educational Sciences, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, to discuss a Ph.D. research proposal submitted by researcher Amat Al-Alim Abdulbadi' Al-Musannaf, entitled "An Analysis of the Intermediate School Mathematics Curriculum in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Light of 21st-Century Skills."

The research proposal addresses a contemporary educational topic related to curriculum development and its alignment with the rapidly evolving demands of knowledge and technology. The study aims to analyze the content of the mathematics curriculum at the intermediate school level in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to determine the extent to which it incorporates 21st-century skills, particularly critical and creative thinking, problem-solving, effective communication, collaboration, and the use of modern technologies in learning.

The study also seeks to examine the degree of alignment between the curriculum components and contemporary educational trends that emphasize preparing learners for future challenges and labor market requirements. To achieve this, the research employs scientific analytical tools designed to evaluate curricula, identify their strengths, and highlight opportunities for improvement and development.

During the seminar, the researcher presented the study’s objectives, significance, and methodological framework, in addition to outlining its theoretical foundations. Members of the review committee provided a number of scholarly observations and academic recommendations aimed at refining the proposal and strengthening its methodological structure, thereby enhancing its scientific value and practical relevance.

The review committee was chaired by Dr. Talaat Mohammed Al-Dardir, Head of the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, and included Associate Professor Dr. Mahrous Sulaiman, Dr. Mahmoud Mensi, and Dr. Majed Al-Mahrouqi as committee members.

This seminar reflects the ongoing efforts of the Deanship of Graduate Studies at the Islamic University of Minnesota to support high-quality educational research and encourage studies that contribute to the development of curricula and academic programs. Such efforts help enhance the quality of educational processes and learning outcomes in ways that respond to contemporary demands and future challenges while supporting educational development initiatives across the Arab and Islamic world.