In many ways, curriculum is a fluid idea/entity. It changes – whether dramatically or subtlety – in terms of its core aim, its content, & its mode of delivery. Considering these aspects of curriculum return us to the interlocking matters of what and how we considered in relation to our second big question (see Question #2 – What is curriculum … & is it locked into a time-loop?).
As we explored in our first major question (see Question #1 – Where shall we point the arrow of time/observation?), we considered Nel Noddings’ idea of educating the whole child. With this in mind, what should the core aim of a curriculum be in today's world?
· THE AIMS OF EDUCATION (2008) – NEL NODDINGS – (The Curriculum Studies Reader #34)
What about change & the curriculum of tomorrow? While curriculum is formally changed by institutional organizations (such as government departments), larger social forces (such as economic interests & political pressure) shape these changes. The matter of curriculum change is debated in the public sphere. A variety of stakeholders attempt to participate in this process of change, with varying degrees of success; and this is partly because stakeholders hold different forms social, cultural, and linguistic capital.
Key curriculum-related issues that have arisen over the years (such as the core aim of curriculum itself) continue to be a matter of debate. As we reflect on the question of curriculum change, numerous questions arise: (1) When & why does curriculum change? (2) Why should it change? (3) Who is (& isn’t) involved in this change process? Who should be? (4) What happens when curriculum changes? (5) How has curriculum changed in the past & what can we learn from this?
Additional books/articles on the subject of curriculum purpose, interpretation, & change include:
· The Daily Grind (1968) – PHILIP JACKSON – (The Curriculum Studies Reader #11)
· Beyond the Ethics of Flag Waving: Schooling & Citizenship for a Critical Democracy (1991) – HENRY A. GIROUX
· Diversity, Group Identity, & Citizenship Education in a Global Age (2008) – JAMES A. BANKS
