With its focus on the application of theory to actual classroom practice, this text's treatment of the full spectrum of curriculum design and practice has set the standard for completeness for nearly two decades.
Part I explores the historical roots of current curriculum issues and practices, emphasizing the assessment of leading efforts at reform. Part II offers a critique of changing concepts of curriculum, conflicting curriculum and educational rationales, and influences for and against change. In Part III, major crosscurrents in reform and reconstruction are discussed, including social crises, the "knowledge explosion”, curriculum articulation, and emerging designs. Part IV focuses on curriculum research and improvement, paying particular attention to the roles of teachers, supervisors, administrators, and curriculum specialists in the process.
Features include:
An applications focus throughout the text
Ties theoretical material to actual practice, and to implications for school improvement. Diagrams and tables illustrate theoretical concepts; and, problems for study extend student thinking beyond academic discussion into the real world of classrooms.
Presentation and evaluation of alternative curriculum designs
Clearly reveal the pivotal connection between curriculum structure and function.
A broader-based focus
Encompasses the needs of both undergraduate and graduate courses. This expanded focus is evident in an increased emphasis on curriculum design, its development, and its role in creating solutions to the practical problems faced today in such areas as teaching, school improvement, and educational. Concrete guidelines are provided for teachers, supervisors, administrators, and curriculum specialists striving for curriculum improvement based on a sound conceptual framework...along with illustrations of their part in the process.
A conceptual model of curriculum reform
Used as a "compass” for evaluating the viability of contemporary reform efforts. Major reform programs are compared and contrasted, using this model to illuminate the reasons behind their success or failure in the past, and shed light on future prospects for other proposals.
Systematic treatment of the process of curriculum
Stresses ways to build upon the vast knowledge base present in the field. It offers students a background in national educational/curricular reform proposals, both past and present, to provide perspective on the field along with insights into possible new directions.
The latest issues and concerns in curriculum
Especially such issues as national testing, curriculum fragmentation, and the quest for a "core” curriculum in a multicultural society.
Authors: Daniel Tanner and Laurel Tanner
Published: March 2006
ISBN: 0-13-086473-0
576 Pages
