Different Types of Curriculum: Which One is Right for Your Child?

By Nitin Sharma | Curriculum development, Higher Education | Comments are Closed | 23 November, 2023 | 0

Summary

This article explores the different types of curriculum and how to select the right one for your child.

Curriculum is integral to an education system. It is the path that guides student learning experiences and helps teachers evaluate and achieve student learning outcomes. However, curricula can vary significantly, as each type resonates with a particular educational setting, student body, teaching preferences, and even the diploma program (Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, etc.).

This makes it essential for learners to be aware of the different types and select one that matches their competency and learning needs. Read on to explore the different types of curriculum to choose the best one for your child.

What is a Curriculum?

The term curriculum refers to a well-organized plan that outlines the academic lessons and content of a particular course. It defines the learning standards and objectives of the course. The curriculum also marks the core competencies a student should achieve before proceeding to the next academic level.

What are the 9 Types of Curriculum?

The right curriculum can help students gain knowledge efficiently. Let’s take a look at some of the popular curriculum types that are in use:

1. Written Curriculum

Also known as overt or explicit curriculum, this type of curriculum is formally written down. It is one of the few curriculum development models that experts formulate after consulting the subject teachers. This documented curriculum is meant to be followed by teachers, as it creates a benchmark for what needs to be taught.

2. Covert Curriculum

In contrast to the written curriculum, the covert or hidden curriculum is unplanned and not formally documented. This type of curriculum development includes implied rules and unmentioned expectations. Even though this curriculum isn’t planned, it greatly impacts students and their learning by teaching students cultural values like punctuality, obedience, etc.

3. Subject-Centered Curriculum

This type of curriculum planning helps students gain specialized knowledge in a particular subject. Subject-centered curricula are followed by a large number of schools worldwide, forming a part of the formal education system.

4. Student-Centered Curriculum

A student-centered curriculum places importance on the competencies and learning styles of the students. Here, the education system follows a learner-centric approach. It recognizes the fact that every learner is different. As such, the learning approach is developed to be unique for each student. This learning process has teachers serving the role of facilitators.

5. Activity Centered Curriculum

The activity-centered curriculum follows one of the best practices in curriculum development. Since the learning process involves engaging activities, it evokes student interest, especially in different types of learners (e.g., kinesthetic). Another plus point is that it increases students’ knowledge retention while allowing them to learn concepts in a fun way.

6. Teacher-Centered Curriculum

In this curriculum, the focus lies on teachers. They provide learning methodologies that the students need to follow. At the same time, they make students aware of their responsibilities. Their focus lies in delivering content and not catering to students’ desires.

7. Integrated Curriculum

The curriculum is formed by integrating two or more disciplines in this learning process. The disciplines chosen for curriculum integration normally have certain similarities in concepts and themes. This method fosters students’ ability to apply what they grasp and learn in one context to another. This learning process helps to develop life skills in learners.

8. Assessed Curriculum

This curriculum, also known as a tested curriculum, involves assessment processes. It includes tests, quizzes, and other methods that assess students. This curriculum strategy can involve several assessment forms, such as demonstration, presentation, etc.

9. Core Curriculum

This curriculum type involves an array of common courses. It upholds the idea of general education and common learning for all students. Every student is entitled to the same learning experiences as part of this curriculum. These common experiences prepare students to adjust efficiently to society.

This type of curriculum focuses on the holistic growth of the student.

Also Read: 10 Trends & Predictions That Will Shape the Future of Curriculum Development

How to Select the Right Curriculum for Your Child?

Now that you have an idea about the various types of curriculum, you can help your child make an informed decision about their education. For this, you don’t need to be a curriculum specialist. Just remember that an institution’s curriculum type should align with your child’s learning style and ensure quality education. Furthermore, it should foster holistic development and promote lifelong learning.

In this context, opting for an institution integrating AI into the curriculum would be a great step forward.

AI in Curriculum Development

AI in curriculum development can help educators create customized learning experiences tailored to the performance and needs of individual students. This can encourage children to become more involved in their learning and attain success in their learning objectives. When selecting an institution that curates the ideal curriculum for your child, consider their ability to integrate innovative technologies into everyday learning scenarios.

Given that anywhere from 20%-40% of teachers’ current workload can be automated using AI tools, they can dedicate more time to teaching students. A few key benefits of leveraging AI in curriculum development include:

With more advanced capabilities of Generative AI, this technology can literally create personalized curriculum based on specific prompts and develop assessments based on this information.
Gamified learning combined with AI can generate engaging and efficacious assessments where learners can move up levels based on comprehension. This ensures that no student gets left behind or feels bored.
AI can provide instant feedback and resources.

Check out this EXCLUSIVE eBook: Hurix Minibook: The Paradigm Shift in Higher Education with Curriculum Development

Conclusion

A well-developed curriculum can provide guidance and encourage children to explore various possibilities in their education. Further, incorporating AI in the curriculum can enhance student engagement by delivering personalized learning and instant support.

If you want to know more about AI in curriculum, you can seek the services of a reliable ed-tech company that offers such innovative learning solutions. Hurix Digital can deliver efficient and engaging eLearning solutions to increase student engagement and boost knowledge retention.

For more information, contact us here.