Curriculum development

Definition

Curriculum development is the process of designing, implementing, and evaluating educational programs and learning experiences to ensure they meet the needs of students and society. This process involves selecting content, determining instructional methods, and establishing assessment strategies to facilitate effective learning outcomes. It plays a crucial role in shaping educational practices and policies across various educational contexts, adapting to societal changes and technological advancements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Curriculum development can vary significantly across different educational systems, reflecting local needs, cultural values, and governmental policies.
2. The 20th century saw significant shifts in curriculum development influenced by progressive education movements, emphasizing experiential learning and critical thinking.
3. Vocational education has been an important focus within curriculum development, especially with legislation like the Smith-Hughes Act aimed at improving training for specific trades.
4. With the rise of technology, modern curriculum development increasingly incorporates online learning platforms and MOOCs to enhance accessibility and flexibility in education.
5. Curriculum development often involves collaboration among educators, policymakers, community stakeholders, and industry representatives to ensure relevance and effectiveness.

Review Questions

• How did historical developments in public education influence contemporary practices in curriculum development?
  • Historical developments in public education have shaped contemporary practices in curriculum development by establishing foundational philosophies and frameworks that guide educational goals. Events like the establishment of compulsory education laws emphasized the importance of providing structured learning experiences for all students. As society evolved, so did the curriculum, reflecting changes in knowledge, technology, and social values. This historical context has led to a more inclusive approach today that considers diverse learner needs while adhering to established standards.
• Discuss the impact of the Smith-Hughes Act on vocational education curriculum development in the United States.
  • The Smith-Hughes Act of 1917 significantly impacted vocational education curriculum development by providing federal funding for vocational programs in public schools. This legislation aimed to prepare students for specific careers by creating a structured framework for vocational education. It led to the establishment of standardized curricula that focused on practical skills relevant to the workforce. As a result, many schools began integrating vocational training into their overall curricula, ultimately shaping the way vocational education is perceived and delivered today.
• Evaluate how the emergence of MOOCs and online learning platforms is transforming traditional curriculum development processes.
  • The emergence of MOOCs and online learning platforms is transforming traditional curriculum development processes by shifting the focus towards flexibility, accessibility, and scalability in education. These platforms allow educators to design curricula that can reach a global audience while accommodating diverse learning styles. They also encourage a more collaborative approach to content creation as educators can draw on resources from various disciplines and institutions. This transformation challenges traditional notions of classroom-based instruction and prompts ongoing revisions to curriculum development practices to incorporate digital literacy and online engagement strategies.

Related terms

Instructional Design: The systematic process of developing educational and training materials and experiences in a way that facilitates effective learning.

Standards-Based Education: An educational approach that focuses on measuring student performance against specific standards and objectives set by educational authorities.

Assessment Strategies: Methods used to evaluate student learning and progress, which can include formative assessments, summative assessments, and various tools to measure understanding.