Chapter 6- Curriculum Theory

Next slide

Back to first slide

View graphic version

Good practice is based on theory

We can’t operate by the seat of our pants

Alienation toward theory--pie in the sky; not practical

Theory attempts to make meaning of complex phenomenon. Curriculum is not a simple phenomenon.

Beauchamp:

• Theory is derived from three categories of knowledge; the humanities, the natural sciences, the social sciences

• Subtheories in education: administrative, counseling,instructional,evaluation, curriculum

Major Categories of Curriculum Theories

• Design theories: address the basic organization of the curriculum plan

• Engineering theories: explain, describe, predict, or guide curriculum development activities