At present there is a lack of theory that would direct curriculum research, and the National Institute of Education (NIE) could profitably direct its efforts toward the development of curriculum and instructional theories. NIE's thrust into curriculum, in addition, would be most acceptable if it were to dexterously guide curriculum development,…

The forces which stimulated the social science curriculum reform movement to both its accomplishments and its decline are observed and reported. (Author/GK)

Based on ten years of experience in curriculum research and development, the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory supports the following principles concerning policy issues in curriculum development: (1) state and local policy makers and practitioners should make decisions about needed curriculum development, and the same persons should make…

In his critical response to TM 506 654, the author points to three major strengths of the aforementioned. These include: (1) breadth of perspective; (2) significance of federal presence; and (3) recommendations concerning the future role of the federal government in education. Also discussed are areas deemed questionable by the author. (GK)

Based on experiences gained through involvement with three curriculum development projects, one relating to an elementary science curriculum and the other two relating to junior high school mathematics, the following recommendations are presented: (1) financial support from an outside agency, public or private, makes boldness more probable in…

This paper lists a series of topics that should be considered by the federal government in formulating its role in the provision of quality alternatives to the educational materials now available. The outline focuses on the following: (1) the topics that need attention; (2) pedagogic media and styles; (3) to whom education is directed; (4) basic…

Any system for the sponsorship, support, or design of educational projects (such as curriculum projects) has intrinsic biases as to style and content. To test the thesis that these biases are virtually inevitable and precede considered policy, two simplified models of systems support can be used: the "Culture Ministry" approach and the "In Situ"…

Presented is an interview with Donald J. Senese (Department of Education Assistant Secretary) in which the department's functions, responsibilities, and philosophies in precollege science/mathematics education are outlined and discussed. Specific questions answered relate to curriculum development, creationism, copyright ownership of software,…

An in-depth analysis of the substance and the implications of the National Environmental Education Act (1990a and 1990b) is provided. The establishment of new agencies, their charge to coordinate efforts, the range of activities to be supported, and the level of funding all indicate a significant renewal of federal commitment to environmental…

A most crucial factor to be considered in any curriculum development effort is that the impact of the content, method, and materials of instruction can be almost completely nullified by teacher attitude and implementation procedures. Investment in instructional materials must be supported by a counterpart investment in teaching teachers how to use…

The history of the federal government's involvement in elementary and secondary school curriculum development is traced. An attempt is made to place this involvement within a social and political perspective. Effects of policies and programs are outlined, and questions concerning the federal role in curriculum development are explored. (Author/GK)

Described in this document are three stages in the emergence and acceptance in West Germany of the situation-oriented approach to education for "kindergarten" children (ages 3 to 6 years). In brief, this approach stresses learning in real-life situations within the community and values the contributions of children, families, and…

The following recommendations on curriculum development are presented: (1) Federally sponsored research and development in education has had a beneficial effect on American schools, and promises to be even more effective if responsible, long-term policies can be established and followed; (2) Freedom of choice and cultural diversity can be…

Outlines the structures, technologies, participants, and benefits of the proposed project, "Iowa Distance Education Alliance: Partnerships for Interactive Learning through Telecommunications," which received a U.S. Department of Education Star Schools Program grant in October 1992. Project goals, timetables, and activities are listed.…

Curricular domains relevant to work experience programs are motivation, sequencing, and goals. A case study of a project of institutional collaboration on peer counseling for work experience students (forming a consortium between a city school board of education and a community college) was made through data generated from the Youthwork National…