There are characteristics of student- centered and subject- centered approaches within a curriculum which must be recognized by teachers. Subject- based curriculums concentrate on the need for students to learn specific subjects as well as subject of their choice. They are taught concepts and principles of those specific subjects. Student- centered curriculums emphasize students’ individual needs and encourage self- realization, expression, and experimental learning.
Subject centered approaches pertain to perennialism, and essentialism. Their content emphasizes academic, vocational and elective subjects. The use of knowledge, concepts, principle, and specialized knowledge is emphasized through instruction. Each subject is treated separately. Basic subjects that are considered essential usually include English, history science, and mathematics at a secondary level. More specific subjects are used to promote skills needed for professions including classes such as business mathematics and journalism. Secondary schools often have a list of subjects students can choose from to explore their career goals, interests, and learning styles. For example, schools often offer drama, computer design and creative writing. Perennialists concentrate more on liberal arts and values through memorization, mental discipline and motorized knowledge. Essentialists concentrate more on academic subjects through concepts and principles, problem solving, and essential skills. The new core curriculum derived from both perennialism and essentialism emphasizes the content of a common curriculum for all students with a focus on academics. All students should be learning the same subjects and have an instructional emphasis on common knowledge, intellectual concepts and moral issues.
Student- centered approaches pertain to social reconstruction, progressivism and existentialism. An activity centered curriculum uses progressivism ideas. Content emphasizes student interests and activities for students, the school and the community. Students are instructed through active and experimental learning with projects. Alternative schools also use ideas of progressivism by concentrating on the students’ needs, interests and experiences. Instruction of such curriculum is carried out through play, expression, and a free- learning environment. A values- center curriculum uses ideas of social reconstruction and existentialism. Its content emphasizes democratic, ethical and moral, and universal values. Instruction is carried out through emotions and attitudes, and decision making. The relevant curriculum is composed of students needs and has students work on personal problems and reflective thinking.
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