This chapter focuses on the systematic processes involved in developing new courses and units. Glatthorn emphasizes structured approaches that ensure alignment with educational goals, learner needs, and institutional standards. He frames curriculum development as a collaborative and iterative process rather than a purely top-down mandate.
Key Points
1. Needs Assessment
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The first step in developing new courses or units is identifying the need.
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Needs may arise from:
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Changes in student demographics or learner interests.
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New technologies or societal demands.
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Gaps in existing curriculum offerings.
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Methods for assessing needs include surveys, interviews, focus groups, and analysis of achievement data.
2. Defining Goals and Objectives
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Once the need is identified, clear goals and objectives must be established.
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Goals are broad statements of intent; objectives are specific, measurable outcomes for learners.
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Objectives should reflect what learners are expected to know, do, or value by the end of the course/unit.
3. Curriculum Design and Organization
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Glatthorn highlights the importance of organizing content logically and sequentially.
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Design considerations include:
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Scope and sequence of topics.
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Integration with other courses or units.
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Balancing theoretical and practical content.
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Unit development may involve:
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Structuring lessons around central concepts.
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Determining appropriate depth vs. breadth.
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4. Instructional Strategies
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Effective development requires selecting instructional methods that align with goals and learner needs.
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Considerations include:
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Active learning and student engagement.
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Differentiation to accommodate diverse learners.
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Integration of technology and multimedia.
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5. Assessment and Evaluation
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Curriculum development includes planning assessments that measure whether objectives are achieved.
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Formative assessments guide instruction during the course.
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Summative assessments evaluate overall learner mastery.
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Alignment between objectives, instruction, and assessment is critical.
6. Implementation Planning
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New courses or units need a structured implementation plan.
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Includes timelines, resource allocation, teacher training, and logistical support.
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Piloting units before full-scale implementation can help identify gaps or adjustments.
7. Review and Continuous Improvement
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Glatthorn emphasizes an iterative process:
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Collect feedback from teachers, students, and stakeholders.
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Monitor student learning outcomes.
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Revise curriculum elements based on evaluation data.
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Continuous improvement ensures the curriculum remains relevant, effective, and responsive to emerging needs.
8. Collaboration and Stakeholder Involvement
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Curriculum development should be collaborative:
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Involve teachers, administrators, content experts, and sometimes students.
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Collaboration promotes shared ownership and increases successful adoption.
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Key Takeaways
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Developing new courses/units is a systematic, goal-driven, and iterative process.
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Alignment among needs, objectives, instructional strategies, and assessment is essential.
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Stakeholder engagement and ongoing evaluation improve the relevance and effectiveness of the curriculum.
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Glatthorn frames curriculum development as dynamic, responsive to societal changes, student needs, and educational innovations.
