The Field of

Curriculum
Chapter 1 Summary
 Objective
This presentation will identify key information from Chapter
One “The Field of Curriculum.” Such information will aim to
define curriculum, explain the significance of theory and
practice and the role of the curriculum worker.
 Defining Curriculum
Driving
●  What exactly is curriculum?
●  What Questions
is the purpose of curriculum?
●  How does curriculum affect students and teachers?
●  How do we approach curriculum?

5 Basic Definitions of Curriculum

1.  Curriculum is a plan for achieving goals and providing learning
opportunities for students.
2.  Curriculum is the process of influencing the learner’s experiences in the
classroom.
3.  Curriculum can also be a field of study with its own theory and principles.
4.  Curriculum can be defined in terms of subject matter such as math,
science, history etc.
5.  Curriculum could also be defined in terms of grade levels which include
facts and concepts of particular subject areas.
 Theory and Practice
Theory refers to the most advanced views within
a field. It also establishes framework and can
help researchers analyze data and organize
concepts.

Theory can take the form of: Curriculum theory involves

●  Definitions decisions about the following:
●  Operational constructs ●  The development of
●  Assumptions curriculum
●  Hypotheses ●  Curriculum design
●  Generalizations ●  Curriculum evaluation
●  Laws or theorems
The Role of a Curriculum
Worker
Assigned responsibilities within a school can be unclear because different people
within the school are expected to serve as curriculum workers in a variety of ways.
For example, teachers must provide instruction while principals manage a school
and assist teachers. Therefore, clarifying the responsibilities of curriculum workers
is vital for a successful academic environment.

The following are some of the responsibilities of curriculum workers:

●  Blend theory building with practice to obtain curriculum knowledge

●  Develop technical methods and tools to carry out planning.
●  Agree on what is involved in curriculum development and design.
●  Create a mission or goal statement to provide a focus behavior for the
organization.