Analysis of Approach Variations in Arabic Language Curriculum Development: A Literature Study on Models and Their Implementation

Abstract

Curriculum is a fundamental component of the education system that determines the direction, content, and process of learning. This study analyzes the various approaches used in Arabic language curriculum development and identifies the strengths and weaknesses of each approach within the context of Arabic language learning. A descriptive-qualitative library research (literature review) design was employed. A total of 20 primary sources five journal articles and fifteen scholarly books, reports, and canonical curriculum-theory works were reviewed; contemporary sources were drawn from the period 2014-2024 to ensure relevance and currency, while a small number of foundational theoretical works were retained regardless of publication year because they remain the conceptual basis of the field. Data were analyzed using content analysis and comparative analysis to identify patterns, characteristics, and the relative effectiveness of each approach. The results show five main approaches to Arabic language curriculum development: competency-based, system-based, decentralization-based, comprehensive, and problem-centered. In addition, twelve curriculum development models were identified and classified into two groups five models grounded in educational philosophy and seven models grounded in the curriculum development process most of which originate from Western theoretical traditions but can be contextually adapted to Arabic language learning. The findings indicate that, despite their differing emphases, all of the approaches and models are fundamentally oriented toward developing three domains of education: cognitive, affective, and psychomotor. This research offers a theoretical contribution to a more comprehensive understanding of Arabic language curriculum development and practical guidance for curriculum developers in selecting an approach appropriate to their context and learning needs.