System models are commonly used in tertiary education as a mechanism for describing the interacting components of educational phenomena, but have hitherto been uncritically accepted. This paper provides a critical review of existing systems models, including the 3P model defined Biggs, and outlines their conceptual challenges. A revised model…

In 2008, the University of Melbourne rolled out its restructured undergraduate degree program offerings. Rather than offering a multitude of faculty-specific degrees, the University started to offer a limited number of generalist degrees that serve as developmental pathways to specialist masters programs as well as stand-alone employment…

Scotland's new "Curriculum for Excellence" (CfE) has been widely acknowledged as the most significant educational development in a generation, with the potential to transform learning and teaching in Scottish schools. In common with recent developments elsewhere, CfE seeks to re-engage teachers with processes of curriculum development,…

Discusses the desirability of curriculum reform, the status quo, and difficulties facing those who challenge fundamental assumptions of subject matter design and sanctioned practice. The article suggests alternative models of curriculum design and practice, highlighting structural changes needed in classroom instruction, professional education,…

Reviews research on curriculum development in developing nations (particularly Thailand, Latin America, Israel, Jamaica, and Papua New Guinea), including input output studies, teacher effectiveness studies, and studies of school and classroom organization. Concludes that effective and innovative practices promote teacher involvement in curriculum…

The papers presented cover three general themes: modern education and curriculum; the legacy of educational thought; and origins and issues in U.S. educational development. Part 1 begins with "The 'New Social Studies' and Curriculum Innovation: The Amherst Project Experience, 1959-1972" (C. E. Samec) which describes the project's…

This book of readings in social studies makes available several recent developments in this discipline and attempts to summarize some of the projects, monographs, and special programs being conducted at several major curriculum centers. Five facets of the new social studies are examined here. Part One is an overview of the nature and direction of…

This paper proposes a model of a democratic paradigm for educational researchers and practitioners. It attempts to explore the kinds of thinking that would be required to create such a system, to determine what principles and curriculum theories are involved and how they would work. It seeks to relate this model to the new National Council for…