EDU 205.

11

MODULE 1
1.3.CURRICULUM AND
SYLLABUS
Definition:

“Curriculum is the tool in the

hands of an artist(teacher) to
mould his materials(pupils)
according to his
ideals(objectives) in his
studio(school).”

Arthur Cunningham
Curriculum is the crux of the
whole educational process.
The term curriculum is derived
from the latin word “currere”
which means a path.
It is the totality of experiences
to which a pupil is exposed
within the boundaries of the
school.
Definition:

A syllabus is the specification of

the work of particular
department especially schools
and colleges, organized in
subsections, defining the work
of a particular class or group.
It is time bound and specifies
a starting point and an ultimate
goal.
It is the actual matter that
makes up teaching.
It can only specify what is to
be taught, but not what is to be
learnt.
Similarities:
Both are related with the targets and
goals of teachers and students.
Both complement t each other.
Both are concerned about what to
teach.
Both are outlines.
Both help teachers to teach the
portions quickly.
Consumes time.
Differences:
Syllabus Curriculum
Greek term Latin term
Theoretical Practical learning
Always specific Broader
Academic Holistic development
development Refers to the overall
Described as summary content
of the topics Is prescriptive
Is descriptive Covers a particular
Set for a particular course
subject Lasts till the
Duration for a year completion of a course
NEETHU M