The curriculum literature has much to say about the ecological fallacy embodied in the "best practices" movement. The work of Schwab anticipated much of it by reminding us of the dangers of trying to control classroom practices from afar, with the use of theoretical representations of classrooms that were, by definition, never fully like their…

Describes the development of an inventory to measure educational value orientations. The inventory assesses whether teachers favor disciplinary mastery, social reconstruction, learning process, self-actualization, or ecological validity as the most important outcome of education. (GEA)

This paper examines some intersections among school literacy events and practices, identity formation, and the institutional practice known in the US as tracking. During a year-long, critical ethnographic study to examine how a team-taught, interdisciplinary curriculum impacted the development of students' literacies, it was found that not only…

Delineates the concepts of character, virtue, vice, and privation which undergird Joseph J. Schwab's 'informing vision,' as discussed in "The Practical 4: Something for Curriculum Professors to Do." States that in explicating the informing vision, the animating spirit needs to be retained. (LS)

Focuses on constructivism and its implications for curriculum theory and practice. Warns against relying on theory, stating that no single theory can provide an adequate foundation for educational practice. States that the constructivist and situated learning movement offers a challenge for curriculum theory, practice, and research. (CMK)

Criticizes the adoption of business-originated Total Quality Management principles into school administration. Contrasts this with the establishment of learning communities, an approach that emphasizes engendering commitments in individuals as opposed to manipulation or control. Further outlines this approach and describes several successful…

Predicts that the paradigms of chaos theory will rapidly move into the social sciences, resulting in major changes in educational research and the study of the curriculum. Discusses the need for new metaphors and paradigms in the social sciences. Briefly characterizes previous educational principles and approaches. (MJP)

Identifies and characterizes a set of conceptual frameworks that traditionally have informed home economics curricula. Proposes an emancipatory orientation towards home economics that emphasizes enlightenment and empowering the students. Uses critical theory to frame questions regarding food, shelter, clothing, physical and psychological needs.…

Analyzes the distinction between an academic discipline and its corresponding school subject and how this affects curriculum development. Examines the range of possibilities for the relationship between the two concepts and interprets the meaning of each possibility. Describes a series of actual curricular proposals associated with each…