Curriculum Design and Development

Course Code: MMACPA_02

Masters Level Module

Through seminars, lectures and workshops, the module aims to provide participants with new analytical and critical skills with regard to their curricular interests and responsibilities, in particular: an improved ability to 'read' curriculum materials, practices and policies in the light of the theoretical principles and ideological perspectives that inform them; an enhanced appreciation of the cultural and philosophical roots of issues in curriculum design and development; a better understanding of design and development strategies; and a capacity for deeper reflection on their own experience of curriculum. The role of 'economic rationalism' in driving current curriculum reforms in Britain and abroad is considered and it is contrasted with broader and more democratic agendas. 'Culture' is a key concept for the module, since curriculum is a selection from culture; thus debates around common and differentiated curricula are contextualized historically in relation to different conceptions of culture and ways of estimating the adequacy of curricula to contemporary cultures are suggested. Contents, objectives, processes and assessment are addressed as variously weighted dimensions of curriculum design and development with reference to both the classics of curriculum design literature and current writings and policies. Finally, the vital continuing roles of individual schools and teachers in this era of National Curricula is a recurring theme of the module.

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