Question1. Analysis of the differences, advantages and the disadvantages between learner and subject centered Curriculum.
Learner and subject centered curriculums differ on philosophical issues of behavior and teaching styles. Learner centered curriculum focus on individual student learning based on what the teacher determines as key needs. Teachers in this curriculum promote growth by guiding students based on their needs and interests. This curriculum has goal based classrooms and students aim to achieve predetermined objectives. Arguably, the Subject centered curriculum follows a set curriculum where the teacher determines what ought to be taught at each time. It follows a set format such as a textbook. This curriculum compares students with each other to evaluate their success (Hirsch, 2002).
Learner centered curriculum creates a strong bond between teaching staff and the curriculum which develops skills and knowledge for students. It also encourages research and lays strong emphasis on student needs. However, teachers using this approach can miss critical needs and some students do not relate well with other students. The subject centered curriculum is easy to plan, rarely overlooks anything serious and easy to adopt in case of teachers who are beginners. Students also like this approach and teachers can grow with the students year to year (Hirsch, 2002). However, this approach hinders an understanding of the curriculums wider setting since it follows what is in the textbooks. The process lacks integration and depends on the authority rather than on student needs.
The Subject-centered curriculum dominates classes and assumes that elementary schools have a school wide curriculum. It is widely acceptable due to aims of achieving excellence and fairness for all (Hirsch, 2002). I would define a curriculum based on its ability to create an involving school community and the ability to impact high academic skills. Therefore, it benefits more in teaching relevant skills rather than vague ones.
References
Hirsch, E.D. Jr.(2002). The core knowledge curriculum- What's behind its success? 23-30.
