Collaborative Curriculum Management: Lessons Learned from the 5th Curriculum Reform at the Open University for Adults

Abstract

The objective of this study was to analyze the institutional lessons learned and opportunities for improvement arising from the 5th Curriculum Reform (2023–2025) at the Open University for Adults (UAPA), through the systematization of experiences as a methodological approach of an evaluative-participatory nature. The study adopted a non-experimental, cross-sectional design with a descriptive-interpretive scope. The systematization combined a literature review of the redesign process for 24 undergraduate and graduate programs with structured interviews of 49 key informants (17 subcommittee leaders and 32 subject-matter faculty members). The results reflect largely favorable assessments of institutional support and teamwork. Key learnings include the adoption of a functional, competency-based approach and the strengthening of interdisciplinary work. Additionally, differences were identified based on role: leaders prioritized strategic aspects such as the Outcome Assessment Plan (OAP), while facilitators emphasized work overload and the need for operational guidelines for the classroom. It is concluded that the systematization of this experience at UAPA highlights the strengths of collaborative curriculum management, identifying the didactic alignment of programs and the sustainability of the process through continuing education as future challenges.