Curriculum Development First Milestone İlayda-Zeynep-Öykü-Bartu
Curriculum Development First Milestone İlayda-Zeynep-Öykü-Bartu
Curriculum Development First Milestone İlayda-Zeynep-Öykü-Bartu
Timeline
28.10.2023- First meeting and discussion about assignment and topic. We understood
the task and thought about educational philosophies. We choose progressivism as our
philosophy of curriculum.
31.10.2023- We held our second meeting. In this meeting, we examined the problems
in the education system and curricula and chose the area we wanted to improve. We
completed our form based on the problems and philosophies we chose.
We aim to improve our program by meeting once or twice a week during the semester.
Introduction
There are many problems that need to be solved and many situations that need to be
improved in our education system from past to present. One of the most important of
these is that students are given rote-based and limited education. Every student's
learning style is different. We believe that students will be more successful if a lesson
plan is prepared according to their own learning styles. Our current curriculum
contains mostly written and verbal instructions. It advocates teacher-centered
education and teaching every student the same method. However, since each student's
learning style is different, some students have difficulty in classes. By preparing a
student-centered curriculum (the teacher is only a guide), we want to ensure that
students can receive education according to their own learning areas. Mathematics is
one of the subjects that students have difficulty with. The curriculum we will prepare
will be about the subject of addition in mathematics class and we will prepare lectures
and activities according to the students' learning areas.
Sociological Rationale
- The sociological rationale of progressivism and pragmatism philosophies in education
emphasizes the role of education in promoting social change, equity, and the
development of critical thinking skills. Progressivism philosophy in education is based
on the belief that education should be student-centered, experiential, and focused on
real-world problem-solving. Progressivism in education recognizes that education is
not only about transmitting knowledge but also about preparing individuals for active
participation in society. It aims to empower students to think critically, question
societal norms, and advocate for social justice.
Philosophical Rationale
- The philosophical rationale of pragmatism in education is based on the belief that
education should be centered around the needs, interests, and experiences of the
individual learner. Emphasizes the importance of problem solving and critical thinking
skills. Pragmatism in education is based on student-centered learning, the idea that
learning should be relevant and connected to the real world. It is an educational
approach that encourages students to explore their own interests, participate in hands-
on activities, and collaborate with others to solve unique problems. Overall, the
philosophical logic of pragmatism in education supports an approach that values
student-centered learning, active participation in society, and the development of
critical thinking skills.
Historical Rational
- While we selecting our philosophy, we highly influenced by Dalton Plan. Even today
student centered education considered utopic or unsustainable; however, Helen
Parkhurst was able to design and conduct a student-centered and progressive
curriculum in the beginning of 20th century and this plan is still practiced today. In
Dalton Plan, being an autonomous learner is encouraged and teachers’ guidance is
necessary. Students can select their own learning tasks and set their own goals. They
communicate, collaborate with their peers during their education. In our concern, the
sense of ownership makes them more interested to their education because they also
play a role in it
- As an example, John Dewey's Laboratory School, established at the University of
Chicago, became a model for progressive education. This experimental school focused
on child-centered learning, hands-on experiences, and integrating subjects across the
curriculum. Dewey's ideas and the success of his laboratory school influenced
educational practices worldwide and helped shape the pragmatist approach to
education. We believe that schools established with this philosophy will contribute
more to education.
Psychological Rationale
- We must remember that students are active participants in the educational process and
their prior knowledge, experiences, and interests shape their learning. The philosophy
of pragmatism and progressivism in education also emphasizes the role of applied and
experiential learning. Students learn best through direct experiences where they can
apply concepts and skills in real-world contexts. This approach fosters deeper
understanding, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Teachers should be aware
of students' learning styles and support cognitive development by preparing the
program according to their students' learning areas. We should motivate and guide
students by providing psychological support. He/she guides students who are not
aware of their learning area and helps them find the appropriate learning style. We
must create a positive and supportive learning environment that encourages students'
curiosity, creativity, desire to learn and supports their social development.