Gagne’s “Nine Steps of Instruction” (or “Nine Events of Instruction”) is an instructional design model that aims to help develop and deliver a class lecture (Gagne’, 1992). Gagne’ believed there are “conditions of learning.” In order to create and stimulate such a “condition of learning,” he developed nine general steps of instruction in teaching (Killpatrick, 2001). By following these nine steps, students will have a higher chance of mastering the knowledge or concepts. The following is a brief list of examples of how Gagne’s Nine Events of Instruction model can be applied in everyday classes. Step 1: Arouse students’ attention Students won’t be ready for learning if instructors don’t have their attention. This step is to obtain their attention so that they will be curious and want to know what’s next. Use of pictures, videos, case studies, news, storytelling, polls, or other ice breaking activities will quickly get students to focus their attention on the con...
Definition of Curriculum: Explore the Historical Background and Components of Curriculum Development. Learn about Traditional and Modern Approaches, Curriculum Types, and Key Elements of a Well-Designed Curriculum.
Definition of Curriculum
A curriculum can be defined as the planned and structured set of learning experiences provided by an educational institution. It encompasses the knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes that students are expected to acquire throughout their educational journey. The curriculum serves as a roadmap, guiding teachers in their instructional practices and helping students achieve specific learning outcomes.
Historical Background of Curriculum Development
Traditional Approaches to Curriculum
In the past, curriculum development focused primarily on transmitting knowledge from teachers to students. This traditional approach emphasized a subject-centered curriculum, where subjects were taught in isolation, and the primary goal was content mastery. The curriculum was often rigid, with a predetermined sequence of topics and a standardized assessment system.
Modern Approaches to Curriculum
In recent decades, there has been a shift towards learner-centered curriculum development. This approach recognizes the importance of engaging students in learning and tailoring instruction to their needs. Modern curricula emphasize active learning, critical thinking, problem-solving, and the development of transferable skills. They also incorporate interdisciplinary approaches and real-world applications to make learning more relevant and meaningful.
Components of Curriculum
A well-designed curriculum comprises several key components that work together to create a cohesive learning experience.
Curriculum Aims and Objectives
The aims and objectives of a curriculum outline the intended learning outcomes for students. They define what knowledge, skills, and attitudes students should develop and provide a clear direction for instruction. Aims and objectives are often aligned with broader educational goals and reflect the values and priorities of the educational institution.
Curriculum Content
Curriculum content refers to the subject matter and topics that are included in the curriculum. It encompasses the core concepts, theories, facts, and principles that students are expected to learn. The content should be relevant, up-to-date, and aligned with the desired learning outcomes. It should also be organized in a logical sequence to facilitate progressive learning.
Curriculum Methods and Strategies
The methods and strategies employed in curriculum delivery significantly impact student engagement and learning outcomes. Effective instructional methods include lectures, discussions, group work, hands-on activities, and the use of educational technology. Teachers should employ a variety of strategies to cater to different learning styles and promote active participation.
Assessment and Evaluation in the Curriculum
Assessment and evaluation are integral parts of the curriculum. They allow teachers to gauge students' progress, identify areas of strength and weakness, and provide feedback for improvement. Assessment methods can include tests, projects, presentations, portfolios, and observations. Evaluation helps to determine the effectiveness of the curriculum and inform future revisions.
Types of Curriculum
Curricula can be classified into various types based on their underlying principles and approaches to teaching and learning.
Subject-Centered Curriculum
The subject-centered curriculum places a strong emphasis on disciplinary knowledge and subject-specific skills. It is organized around distinct subjects, such as mathematics, science, language arts, and social studies. This type of curriculum aims to develop expertise in specific disciplines and provides a foundation for further specialization.
Learner-Centered Curriculum
The learner-centered curriculum focuses on the needs, interests, and abilities of individual learners. It recognizes that students have diverse learning styles, preferences, and strengths. This type of curriculum promotes active learning, student engagement, and personalized instruction. It encourages students to take ownership of their learning and fosters the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Problem-Centered Curriculum
The problem-centered curriculum centers around real-world problems and challenges. It engages students in authentic and meaningful learning experiences, where they can apply their knowledge and skills to solve complex problems. This type of curriculum promotes interdisciplinary learning, collaboration, and the development of higher-order thinking skills.
Activity-Centered Curriculum
The activity-centered curriculum emphasizes hands-on, experiential learning. It encourages students to actively participate in learning activities, such as experiments, field trips, simulations, and projects. This type of curriculum fosters creativity, innovation, and practical application of knowledge. It also provides opportunities for students to develop skills in communication, teamwork, and critical thinking.