Curriculum Planning : Integrating Multiculturalism, Constructivism, and Education Reform

Good curriculum development is seldom quick or easy. The updated third edition of this widely recognized textbook continues to offer a comprehensive treatment of the nature of the curriculum development process and the nature of education reform. In a style uncluttered by jargon and digressive pedagogy, the author helps readers to apply sound foundations and principles of curriculum development to meet their present and future responsibilities in implementing major education reform. The three themes of education reform, multicultural education, and constructivism are cohesively balanced throughout the volume in discussions of such current topics as the increasing impact of education technology, the value of teacher and student empowerment, the power of collaboration, and the validation and expansion of teachers’ roles as researchers. The author also assesses the impact of the No Child Left Behind legislation on various facets of education and school reform. Among the enhancements to promote engaged learning, the third edition features: 1) graphic organizers that open each chapter and present a visual outline of the major topics; 2) focus questions, a summary of advances and concerns, and questions for readers who wish to pursue additional learning opportunities in each chapter; 3) new or updated case studies written by professors and administrators that detail contemporary curriculum planning experiences and apply abstract concepts to real-world situations; and 4) a wealth of Internet resources for teachers, administrators, and curriculum planners. This expanded and updated edition of Curriculum Planning helps remove the mystery surrounding curriculum development and makes it a clear and exhilarating experience.

"This is an excellent text on current topics and trends in curriculum development. The case studies, opening vignettes, and focus questions provide motivation for the student. The emphasis on differentiated instruction and the integration with school reform initiatives are especially strong. The graphic organizers serve as an excellent organizational strategy for understanding the need for strong curriculum development." -- Patricia Richard, University of Maryland

"Few graduate students have made the necessary connections to plan a systems-level [curriculum] improvement. With this text as a planning guide, a school system or a graduate program could master the improvement process." -- Martha Hall, Columbus State University

"Good resource regarding curriculum study--and at an excellent price for a textbook! . . . Comprehensive, yet `reader friendly.' A good balance of theory and practical application." --Marcus Haack, University of Iowa

"This is one of the most easy-to-read texts, packed with appropriate, relevant, and current information from the field and from research. We love it!" -- Beverly Irby, Sam Houston State University

"I am very impressed with the book. I enjoy the natural way that the author explains complex concepts. I find the organization easy to use. It lacks nothing when compared to the text we had formerly adopted--that it sells for half the price is a great book that I want to give my students." -- Dan Elliott, Azuza Pacific University

"This is a fantastic book! I believe it's the best text for instruction in curriculum because Dr. Henson documents and cites research to support the ideas he presents. The format is excellent, especially the graphic organizers used at the beginning of each chapter. The book is well written and enjoyable to read." -- MaryAnn Gaines, Murray State University