cURriCuLUm is a rather broad, multi-faceted term that can be dissected and critiqued on many levels. If I were to formulate a definition, it would go something like this . . .
CURRICULUM is a standard set of ideals/knowledge/values/etc. found within a particular subject matter that guides the teaching/learning process and outlines student expectations and outcomes with the goal of creating critical, independent thinkers. It is tailored to the unique needs of the individual and the community it serves in order to produce productive, positively contributing members of society and it is SMART- specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely - or is it?
KnOwleDgE is another key term in education describing the truths, facts and understandings acquired through education and experiences. If the acquisition of knowledge is fundamental to a successful future, we have to figure out what knowledge is most worth knowing and how it is created and acquired -- since osmosis doesn't seem to be working. With a renewed emphasis on assessment and accountability, we must also consiously be aware of both the practicality and relevance of our lessons and utilize approprate measurement techniques. It seems like an overwhelming feat - much like tearing down the Berlin wall . . . but it is possible!
LeArNInG, or the aquisition/comprehension of knowledge or skills through study, instruction and/or experience is the end result of curriculum. It encompasses the receiving, manipulation, transmission and application of information. Effective learning requires a plan of action outlining what it is we want students to learn? This takes us full-circle back to -- CurRiCULum!
Wecome to the first of my many rantings and ravings about curriculum and its purpose. I hope to uncover the whos, whats, whys, whens, and hows of curriculum during this course, in an attempt to better discover myself and my actions.
CURRICULUM is a standard set of ideals/knowledge/values/etc. found within a particular subject matter that guides the teaching/learning process and outlines student expectations and outcomes with the goal of creating critical, independent thinkers. It is tailored to the unique needs of the individual and the community it serves in order to produce productive, positively contributing members of society and it is SMART- specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely - or is it?
KnOwleDgE is another key term in education describing the truths, facts and understandings acquired through education and experiences. If the acquisition of knowledge is fundamental to a successful future, we have to figure out what knowledge is most worth knowing and how it is created and acquired -- since osmosis doesn't seem to be working. With a renewed emphasis on assessment and accountability, we must also consiously be aware of both the practicality and relevance of our lessons and utilize approprate measurement techniques. It seems like an overwhelming feat - much like tearing down the Berlin wall . . . but it is possible!
LeArNInG, or the aquisition/comprehension of knowledge or skills through study, instruction and/or experience is the end result of curriculum. It encompasses the receiving, manipulation, transmission and application of information. Effective learning requires a plan of action outlining what it is we want students to learn? This takes us full-circle back to -- CurRiCULum!
Wecome to the first of my many rantings and ravings about curriculum and its purpose. I hope to uncover the whos, whats, whys, whens, and hows of curriculum during this course, in an attempt to better discover myself and my actions.
