Varying Definitions of Curriculum
Varying Definitions of Curriculum
Response 1
I had a discussion with a friend of mine who has been teaching in Elementary school for a few years. According to her, the definition of curriculum would fit best to every learning experience exchanged between a student and a teacher. The point she emphasized the most was that the exchange should always be constructive. The role of the teacher as a guide extends outside of the institute, as well. One cannot simply pass bookish knowledge to the student and expect his learning abilities to switch off after home time. I agree with you at the point of a hidden curriculum. I think that restricting the guidance of a teacher to only scholarly education restricts the role of the school or any other responsible authority. Therefore, I also believe curriculum provides an open margin of including activities beyond the school level, just to fulfill the basic purpose of providing worthwhile knowledge.
Response 2
I would define curriculum as a procedure rather than mere content. It is the process of looking for the best possible knowledge and the ways of getting it. I strongly believe that the horizon of a curriculum has broadened with time. Knowledge is everywhere and the world of today demands to gain it in all possible responsible ways. I would agree with what you have written about the curriculum being tailored according to the student’s need. However, the concept of having a school held solely liable for a guiding experience of a student’s life is no more effective or applicable. Unfortunately, we do not see much difference between education and knowledge. Education is a planned process while knowledge is the healthy combination of bits and pieces of experiences that can open up the young minds.
