Curriculum: The Teacher's Initiative (3rd Edition)

Exceptional in relating curriculum to teaching strategies and methods, this book includes the latest in curriculum development, practice, theory, and instructional strategies based on research in how people learn. It is designed to engage teachers in understanding curriculum, reflecting upon it and carrying out their own role in curriculum making. Constructivist pedagogy is a central element throughout the book. Attention to the political and social forces impacting the teacher's role provide information on the accountability movement, the profitization of education, changed views of learning and the influence of technology. Chapter One, Who Makes Curriculum? Roles and Levels of Decision Making, describes federal, state and local efforts to control curriculum, and provides specific cases and suggestions that show how teachers can fulfill their moral, critical and professional responsibilities within these official constraints. Chapter Two, Curriculum in the Context of School Reform, offers an in-depth, up-to-date examination of the impact of various reform policies on classroom practices. Coverage of multiculturalism, globalization, reform, assessment, and standards encourages consideration of the most recent trends and issues influencing curriculum development. For teachers and curriculum makers of kindergarten through 12th grade.