Final Curriculum Theory Course Reflection

I have learned quite a bit about curriculum as a result of this course. I used to think of curriculum simply in the terms of what is supposed to be taught to the students via the textbook and information included in district pacing chart. I have now come to the realization that curriculum is composed of a lot more. Not only do I have a clearer understanding of the written, taught, and tested curriculum but I also know that there is such thing as hidden curriculum as well. Furthermore, I have learned that these all go hand in hand with one another and it is essential that they are all realized, discussed and integrated completely in order to ensure students’ academic achievement. My definition of curriculum has changed because I now that it is shaped by more than just the school district. All stakeholders can play influential and pivotal roles in developing and implementing the selected curriculum.

I have also learned that professional development plays a key role in ensuring that staff members are also clearly aware of what curricular goals they need to meet. Professional development can also provide training for instructional strategies such as differentiated instruction and co-teaching which will assist in making sure the curriculum is imparted clearly and effectively to students. As the future instructional leader of a school it is important that I am not only well versed in these innovative and effective instructional strategies, but that I also provide extended and job embedded opportunities for my staff to learn them.

I must say I particularly enjoyed the week when we discussed creativity in the classroom. I agree with the gentleman in the movie clip for that week that students are now scared to be wrong and creative. That is a shame though because many times those are the very learning opportunities that can teach students so much. The film clip has inspired me to find ways to tap into my students creative skills set and use more creative approaches regarding instruction and assessment.

Previous Reflections Links

*Please see the following reflections posted for previous courses

- Curriculum Course Reflections - http://lenora-individualreflection1-lenora.blogspot.com/
- More Effective Leadership Reflections -http://lenorastransfornationalleadership.blogspot.com/ and http://lenorasfirst3weeks.blogspot.com/

Sorry for the confusion. :-)