Module 2: CURRICULUM: CONCEPTS, NATURE AND PURPOSE

At the end of the lessons, the students will be able to:

1. Define curriculum.
2. Analyze the different types of curriculum.
3. Discuss different curriculum foundations.
4. Discuss different curriculum conceptions.

TOPIC: CURRICULUM: CONCEPTS, NATURE AND PURPOSE

CURRICULUM FROM DIFFERENT POINTS OF VIEW :

There are many definitions of curriculum. Because of this, the concept of curriculum Is sometimes
characterized as fragmentary, elusive and confusing. However, the Numerous definitions indicate
dynamism that connotes diverse interpretations of what Curriculum is all about.

1. Traditional Points of View of Curriculum

a. In early years of 20th century, the traditional concepts of curriculum “curriculum is that is
a body of subjects or subject matter prepared by the Teachers for the students to
learn”.
b. Robert M. Hutchins views curriculum as “permanent studies” where the Rules of
grammar, reading, rhetoric and logic and mathematics for basic Education are
emphasized.
c. Arthur Bestor believes that the mission of the school should be intellectual Training,
d. Thus curriculum can be viewed as a field of study. It is made up of its Foundations
(philosophical, historical, psychological and social foundations); Domains of knowledge
well as its research and principles.
2. Progressive Points of View
a. Curriculum is defined as the total learning experiences of the individual. This Definition
is anchored on John Dewey’s definition of experience and Education.
b. Caswell and Campbell viewed curriculum as “all experiences children have Under the
guidance of teachers.
c. March and Willis on the other hand viewed the curriculum as all the “experiences in the
classroom which are planned and enacted by the Teacher, and also learned by the
students.