Thoughts on Curriculum (from reflection paper as part of requirements for Master of Education, Course EDUC 925 – July 2012)
Curriculum is what is presented for learning and student development within the school environment. It comprises academic subjects, and other activities. The term “presented” can cause complications since it limits the curriculum to delivery. However, curriculum is sometimes what is intended to be delivered. It is the environment defined by school officials in which students can grow according to the standards and values the school officials wishes to share with the students. An effective curriculum should encompass both academic and pro-academic learning. It should focus highly on not what the students learn but how they learn and their approach to learning. It should prepare students for life, meaning that as a result of the curriculum they would be able to live in and contribute diligently and actively to society. Many times, our curriculums become subject based with the end of preparing students to pass an exam to obtain an academic or professional title. Many students leave school “well educated” but lack the aptitude and basic knowledge of life. Students lack professional etiquette, critical thinking skills, the ability to adapt to change, creativity, money management skills, how to use simple services, how to balance work and home responsibilities, how to care for a family and other aspects of relationship. Though highly knowledgeable there is a significant number of students who leave school unable to adapt their thinking processes to situations they did not study at school.