Bachelor of Education | SECOND YEAR | KNOWLEDGE AND CURRICULUM | BES-126
approaches of curriculum designing
Answer:
A curricular approach, as defined by Beane et al. in 1986, is the framework used to make decisions about various aspects of a teaching-learning situation. The selection of a specific approach for curriculum development reflects the following key elements:
i) Objectives: This involves determining the desired learning outcomes.
ii) Content: Deciding what subject matter or content will be covered.
iii) Learning Experiences: Planning the type of learning experiences that will be provided to students.
iv) Roles: Defining the roles of teachers, learners, and the organizing center for the teaching-learning situation.
v) Methods: Choosing the methods that will be used to provide the learning experiences.
These approaches are generally categorized into four major groups, which we will now discuss in the order presented:
Subject-Centered Approach: One of the most traditional approaches, the subject-centered curriculum, revolves around academic disciplines or subjects such as mathematics, science, history, and language arts. This approach aims to provide students with in-depth knowledge in each subject area. It often follows a predetermined sequence of topics and content standards, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of each subject. The advantage of this approach is its depth of knowledge, but it may not cater to diverse learning needs and interests.
Broad Fields Approach: The broad fields approach combines two or more subjects from related fields into a broader field. It has gained popularity recently for several reasons: it avoids rigid subject boundaries, making information more meaningful to learners; it gives teachers greater flexibility in content selection; and it enables learners to see the interrelatedness of various subject areas in the curriculum. However, critics argue that it may lead to a superficial understanding of concepts in broad field areas.
Problem-Centered Approach: Problem-based curriculum design focuses on real-world problems and challenges. Students are presented with authentic problems to solve, and the curriculum is structured to facilitate critical thinking, problem-solving, and the practical application of knowledge. This approach prepares students for complex, dynamic situations they may encounter in their lives and careers. It encourages a deeper understanding of concepts through active problem-solving.
Learner-Centered Approach: The learner-centered approach places the needs, interests, and abilities of individual students at the forefront. It recognizes that each student is unique and emphasizes customization and adaptability in the curriculum. This approach encourages active participation and engagement, allowing students to have a say in what and how they learn. While learner-centered design can foster motivation and personalized learning experiences, it can be challenging to implement on a large scale due to the need for high levels of flexibility and personalization.
In summary, the choice of a curricular approach depends on the specific educational context and goals. Each approach has its advantages and limitations, and educators often blend elements from multiple approaches to create a balanced and effective curriculum. These approaches provide a foundation for curriculum development, which can vary widely based on educational philosophy and desired outcomes.
As per my point of view, I would prefer a blended approach that combines elements of both the Learner-Centered and Problem-Centered approaches. This blend allows for a curriculum that adapts to learners’ individuality while addressing real-world challenges. It empowers learners to explore topics of personal interest and relevance while developing essential problem-solving skills. Such an approach fosters engagement, critical thinking, and practical application of knowledge, preparing students for a rapidly changing world.
The learner-centered aspect ensures that education remains relevant and engaging for students, catering to their unique needs and interests. Meanwhile, the problem-centered component equips students with the ability to tackle complex issues, preparing them to be proactive problem solvers and contributing members of society. This approach strikes a balance between individualization and societal relevance, promoting holistic development and lifelong learning.
