Methods for construction of curriculum

by Yuvi - October 15, 2023

Different Methods for curriculum construction

Concentric method

The word “concentric” means having a common centre.
There is a central topic or unit around which related sub-topics or sub-units of increasing and widening scope are interlaced.
The extent, purpose and usages sequentially get widened as one progressively moves from lower to higher standards.
There is gradual proceeding from easy to difficult, simple to complex, known to unknown.
There is continuity of the unit and it takes the advantages of previous learning to facilitate new learning.
The increase is marked by growth in maturity and comprehension level.
Methods of teaching the topic will also change.
EXAMPLES – Std V, IX and X the topic natural vegetation is covered in increasing complex order of content and types. Similary for rocks – Std, V, VII and VIII. Population – Stds V and X. Water resources – right from 5 to 9^th std.

Regional method

It concentrates on the various regions of the world. It encompasses study of the various details of these regions as under. A variety of teaching aids can be used to make these lessons more interesting and for better retention. It is one of the best methods as it explores the entire existence of that region.

State -> country -> neighbouring country -> natural regions -> various continents

Each of these regions is studied with respect to location, extent, boundaries, climate, vegetation, animal life, resources, human life, recent developments, food, clothing, shelter, occupations, culture, trade, transport and economy.

Eg. Std 7 – Japan, South Africa, Italy, Tanzania, USA, etc.

Unit/Topical method

It is a mix of concentric and regional methods.
According to this type, the subject matter fixed for that particular subject is divided into topics and certain topics are prescribed for certain standards.
There are some topics which are wide and extensive in scope. These topics are split up into small parts. These parts are known as units or topics and the syllabus is designed around such central topics.
Topical syllabus is useful for intensive teaching of a single topic. The learners concentrate on a single aspect at a time. This helps in better learning and retention of the topic.
One moves from know to unknown
Eg. In Water bodies we start from pond and then move to lake, river, sea, bay, creek, straits, gulf, oceans. Each is studied as a separate aspect.

Mixed/Eclectic method

Eclectic means free, diverse or miscellaneous
The Eclectic Syllabus is comprehensive and attempts to include the best of all worlds.
It includes everything in it.
It considers all the elements of different types of syllabus.
It is free and flexible in nature.
Std X syllabus is eclectic or mixed in nature.