C&T 709

Foundations of Curriculum and Instruction

This course introduces key foundations, concepts, and figures in curriculum studies, with a focus on historical and current curriculum trends in the U.S. and how scholars define its aims and purposes.

Philosophy of Curriculum

Your philosophy of curriculum paper includes three parts. Part I summarizes and reflects on your comparison of two curriculum theorists, noting how your understanding of their ideas has evolved. Part II revisits a curriculum issue you took a stance on, reflecting on any shifts in your perspective. Part III synthesizes your learning to articulate your own curricular philosophy, supported by theory, personal reasoning, and examples from practice.

Reflection

In this reflection, I share how the History of Curriculum Design course deepened my understanding of curriculum theory and inspired me to strengthen and expand our play-based preschool model through intentional, inclusive, and culturally responsive professional development and curriculum planning.

Professional Development Resources

As part of our commitment to fostering an inclusive, intentional, and responsive play-based learning environment, the IRIS Center’s module offers a valuable resource for professional development. This module supports early childhood educators in understanding how to structure environments that prevent challenging behaviors and promote positive engagement—an essential step as we implement the reflective practices and curricular shifts outlined in this philosophy.

This module, a DEC-recommended resource, offers information on how to set up effective inclusive early childhood classroom environments for young children. It also provides details about the interrelated physical, social, and temporal components of those environments, as well as adaptations to help teachers meet the needs of children with disabilities