Aligning Academic Goals with National Values

Abstract

This article presents the development and implementation of an educational model that integrates national values into the academic learning process in secondary schools of Kazakhstan. The model is based on Bloom’s taxonomy and Self-Determination Theory (SDT), enriched with the philosophical insights of Abai and Al-Farabi. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving surveys, interviews, and classroom observation in two urban schools. The intervention focused on embedding cultural, moral, and national values into the teaching of core subjects such as mathematics and chemistry. The findings indicate that such an approach fosters greater academic motivation, enhances student behavior, and promotes reflective thinking. Teachers noted increased engagement and value-based discussions among students. The model aligns with the national priority of “birtutas tarbie” (unified upbringing) and can be adapted to different school contexts in Kazakhstan. This study contributes to the discourse on values-based education and offers practical strategies for integrating ethics and character development into mainstream curricula.