The Six-Step Approach to Curriculum Development
Curriculum development refers to the design of educational processes. It states what skills and knowledge should be introduced into studying programs and how new information can be effectively delivered (Nicholls & Nicholls, 2018). The concept aims to develop plans that correspond to educational goals. The needs of students and teachers are always taken into account, and every party receives benefits.
Curriculum development includes six elements: problem identification and needs assessment, targeted needs assessment, goals, and objectives (Thomas et al., 2016). Moreover, educational strategies, implementations, and evaluation with feedback (Thomas et al., 2016). These approaches make it easier for professionals to set the right objectives.
Problem Identification and Needs Assessment
Problem identification and general needs assessment build the whole approach system. According to Thomas et al. (2016), at this stage, the problem is identified, and the needs of learners are revealed. The information about the existing curriculum is gathered and analyzed accurately to detect gaps and correct mistakes. In scientific programs, catching problems early is significant to avoid issues that might negatively influence people’s well-being (Maryanti & Nandiyanto, 2021). In general, this step is designed to understand the challenges that the curriculum should address.
Targeted Needs Assessment
Targeted needs assessment is the second step of the concept, which moves away from the general information and starts identifying more specific facts. Experts collect data about learners as individuals, their backgrounds, interests, and abilities in learning (Thomas et al., 2016). Students with similar indicators in all areas are placed in one group, and professionals in the education sphere prepare a group of activities that may help boost the selected target’s learning skills. In this stage, the proposed information stays more relevant and engaging for learners.
Goals and Objectives
After the needs assessment, it is essential to start measuring the goals and objectives of students. Thomas et al. (2016) stated that there is a significant difference between these two definitions. While goals show a broader outcome that should be achieved, objectives stay specific and are oriented toward one area of study. To make an accurate analysis during this stage, observing learners’ skills and communicating with them to compare visible and invisible factors that can help build an effective curriculum program is essential.
Educational Strategies
Studying experts should start developing educational strategies when the desired goals and objectives are identified. Educators select the proper teaching methods corresponding to the learners’ defined objectives (Thomas et al., 2016). In this case, students’ needs and wants are taken seriously, and lesson design is based on these factors. This step is one of the main ones in the concept of curriculum development, as the studying methods gain uniqueness that helps learners acquire new skills and knowledge.
Implementation
The implementation stage runs the curriculum and delivers the planned lesson to the chosen target. Some changes might be required, and experts may be asked to modify the classes to make them more efficient. Teachers should also be trained during this step, provided with the necessary materials, and integrated into the improved learning environment.
Evaluation and Feedback
It is also essential to receive feedback from all integrated parties and ensure that relevant changes are applied shortly. The evaluation method may include assessments, surveys, and interviews. Understanding the individuals’ thoughts about the proposed curriculum is essential to identifying weaknesses and making working adjustments.
References
Maryanti, R., & Nandiyanto, A. B. D. (2021). Curriculum development in science in vocational school. Journal of Science and Engineering Education, 1(3), 151-156. Web.
Nicholls, A., & Nicholls, H. (2018). Developing a curriculum: A practical guide. Routledge.
Thomas, P. A., Kern, D. E., & Hughes, M. T. (Eds.). (2016). Curriculum development for medical education: A six-step approach (3rd ed.). Johns Hopkins University Press.