Understanding the different types of curriculum organization is essential in being able to deliver effective lessons and instruction. Curriculum organization relates to the approach that is used to sequence and plan curriculum material and design the learning environment.
In this article, we will discuss the various types of curriculum organization, the benefits and drawbacks of each, and ways to improve the effectiveness of planning and delivering curriculum.
1. Departmentalization
This approach to curriculum organization involves breaking down the teachings into distinct subject areas such as math, science, social studies, English, and so on. Subjects are grouped into related disciplines and are usually taught by specialists in each discipline or department. The primary benefit of departmentalization is that it allows teachers to be able to focus on the particular subject they specialize in, and it allows students to benefit from the in-depth study of one subject and the deeper engagement with a single specialist teacher.
However, this method of organization can be limiting in the sense that it can lead to less interdisciplinary and integrative thinking.
2. Interdisciplinary Teaching
The second type of curriculum organization is interdisciplinary teaching. This approach to curriculum organization includes teaching across multiple subject areas that are linked by a central common theme.
This way of teaching allows students to bring together ideas from multiple disciplines and look at issues from a holistic perspective as opposed to just focusing on one area. In addition, lessons and activities can be more interactive and interesting, as students look into many areas simultaneously. The downside to this approach is that it does require more planning, careful selection of theme and objectives, and close monitoring of time.
3. Thematic Teaching and Learning
Thematic teaching and learning is a popular way to organize curriculum as it allows curriculum to be organized around broad topics, rather than by single disciplines. The themes chosen by teachers may be related to literature, science, social studies and history, or they could be based on current events.
As with interdisciplinary teaching, this method encourages students to think more holistically and makes lessons more interactive and interesting. However, teachers need to be careful that the topics chosen are appropriate for the class and have sufficient material available for the lesson.
4. Problem-based Learning
Problem-based learning (PBL) is a type of curriculum organization that is based on the idea that problems and challenges can be used as vehicles for learning. In this type of curriculum organization, students work collaboratively to find solutions to real-world problems.
This method allows teachers to assess their students’ problem-solving capabilities as well as their critical thinking skills. However, this method can also lead to knowledge gaps and a lack of depth in understanding a subject since the focus is on problem-solving.
5. Project Based Learning
Project-based learning (PBL) is another popular way of organizing curriculum. Unlike problem-based learning, PBL approaches use projects and activities as the impetus for learning.
This method allows students to explore topics across multiple disciplines and encourages them to think both critically and creatively, while also allowing them to work on tangible, meaningful tasks and products. However, as with problem-based learning, this method can lead to knowledge gaps as the focus is on the project itself rather than a deeper understanding of the material.
6. Outcome-Based Education
Outcome-based education is an approach to organizing curriculum that is focused on long-term outcomes. This method focuses on desired results and the skills necessary to achieve those results.
The methods used to achieve the desired outcomes can vary depending upon the situation, but all make use of a wide variety of resources and activities. This approach is beneficial in that it allows teachers to tailor their instruction to meet the needs of a particular group or individual. However, this method can be challenging to implement and it can be difficult to assess student progress.
7. Multiple Intelligences Approach
The multiple intelligences approach is a way of organizing curriculum based on the idea that students possess a variety of different kinds of intelligence. This type of curriculum organization focuses on the fact that students learn in different ways and can benefit from being given the opportunity to engage in activities that cater to their individual intelligences. This type of organization allows for a greater variety of resources and activities to be used, and can help to ensure that all students are getting an adequate amount of attention.
However, it can be difficult to assess progress when different approaches are being used.
8. Differentiated Instruction
Differentiated instruction is an approach to curriculum organization that takes into account the individual needs of each student. This type of organization focuses on providing instruction that is tailored to the unique skills, experiences, and needs of each student, so that everyone is able to benefit from the curriculum material. This method provides flexibility in terms of instruction, but it can also lead to unevenness in certain areas, overlooking certain topics or individuals.
9. Mastery Learning
Mastery learning is a type of curriculum organization which focuses on ensuring that students fully understand and can demonstrate mastery of a particular set of skills or concepts before moving on to the next. While this type of organization is beneficial in that it allows for mastery of each topic before proceeding, it can be challenging to implement and may not be the best fit for all students.
10. Competency-Based Education
Similar to mastery learning, competency-based education is a method of organizing curriculum that focuses on ensuring that students demonstrate mastery in each subject or topic. This approach can be beneficial as it allows for flexibility in instruction and encourages skilled teachers to customize instruction for individual students.
However, it can also be difficult to assess progress since not all students progress at the same rate.
11. Cross-Curricular Teaching
Cross-curricular teaching is an approach to organizing curriculum that makes use of linking topics and ideas from different subjects. This type of organization allows for an interdisciplinary approach, by allowing for the integration of concepts and skills from different disciplines in a single activity. This type of learning can be beneficial for providing a more holistic understanding of a topic, but it can be challenging to implement and may require more time for planning and organization.
12. Inquiry-Based Learning
Inquiry-based learning is an approach to organizing curriculum that relies on students engaging in their own research and investigation. This type of learning allows students to explore concepts and ideas on their own and to come up with their own solutions and discoveries.
This method can be beneficial in terms of fostering a deep understanding of a subject or topic, but it can also be challenging to assess progress or to ensure that all students are engaged and involved.
13. Relevance-Based Education
Relevance-based education is an approach to organizing curriculum that is focused on the idea that students should be able to identify the relevancy of the material to their own lives and experiences. This type of learning encourages students to think more critically and to make real-world connections to the material presented, while also providing opportunities for students to explore their own interests and passions.
Conclusion In conclusion, there are a variety of ways to organize curriculum, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Understanding the various types of curriculum organization and their associated benefits and drawbacks can help teachers deliver more effective lessons and instruction. Some of the more popular methods include departmentalization, interdisciplinary teaching, problem-based learning, project-based learning, outcome-based education, multiple intelligences approach, differentiated instruction, mastery learning, competency-based education, cross-curricular teaching, inquiry-based learning, and relevance-based education.