The document outlines 9 characteristics of an effective curriculum:
1. The curriculum continuously evolves to meet the changing needs of the community.
2. The curriculum is based on the needs and experiences of the people it serves.
3. The curriculum is developed democratically with input from many community stakeholders.
4. Developing the curriculum requires long-term effort to ensure its continued success.
5. The curriculum consists of interrelated details that work together to create a supportive learning environment.
2. 1. The curriculum is continuously
evolving.
To be viable and effective, the
curricular program must have
continuous evaluation and
reappraisal. A program must adapt
its educational activities and
services to meet the needs of a
modern and dynamic community.
3. 2. The curriculum is based on the
needs of the people.
It is imperative in developing a
program to begin with those that
concern the people themselves.
Their years of experience can be a
good source that can be woven into
the fabric of the classroom
presentation.
4. 3. The curriculum is
democratically conceived.
The minds and energies of many
people who are in intimate contact
with the interests, needs and
resources of the community will
create a more effective product than
the individual director could
possibly provide by working alone.
5. 4. The curriculum is the result of
long-term effort.
Enthusiasm for a proposed
curriculum activity often impels
proponents to push for immediate
action. But a class or service that is
begun hurriedly and folds quickly
may hurt the long-term continuance
of the program.
6. 5. The curriculum is a complex of
details.
A friendly social meeting, good
student-teacher
relationships, effective guidance
opportunities, and favorable
attitude on the part of
individuals, groups, and
organizations within the
community are necessary
ingredients for a successful
7. 6. The curriculum provides for the
logical sequence of subject
matter.
Classes and activities should be
planned so as to achieve an
orderly development of subject
matter and step-by-step progress of
the learner.
8. 7. The curriculum complements and
cooperates with other programs
in the community.
The public school should not try to
monopolize the education scene at the
community level. Its major concern
should be to see that the jobs get done
regardless of who does it.
9. 8. The curriculum has
educational quality.
The curriculum must be made up of
offerings that pass the test of good and
sound education. We speak of quality
education but there has to be quality
curriculum as well.
10. 9. The curriculum has
administrative flexibility.
Flexibility is a good trait of good
curriculum. A curriculum must be
ready to incorporate changes whenever
necessary.