Curriculum / Syllabus Development - Advantages and Limitations

files/images_static/pros.jpg
  • A curriculum assists training organisations to determine what the students need to know, it sets the standard of training.
  • The curriculum defines what students should know and be able to do by the end of training.
  • The curriculum / syllabus supports trainers and teachers alike in providing high-quality learning experiences for all students.
  • The curriculum / syllabus is expected to be up-to-date and provide an insight into how the professions being trained for are in-line with the current practices and future trends.
  • The syllabus provides an instrument for effective learning and teaching strategies that could be additionally supported by research and practice.
  • The syllabus initiates discussions concerning curriculum integration within and across different subjects.
  • The curriculum defines the standard to be set for evaluating student / trainee performance.
  • The curriculum provides “outsiders” (private sector, government agencies) within an insight into the contents and training approach.
files/images_static/cons.jpg
  • Curricula and syllabus do not necessarily have a legal character and they are not binding, they are indicative.
  • The curricula does not contain a detailed lesson plan, this is usually included only in the subject syllabus.
  • The curricula does not cover everything a student needs to know.
  • Once they are developed and approved they are usually difficult to modify and revise due to the effort required to do so.
  • Slow changes in the curricula often means that the curricula is not always up-to-date and in line with current trends and practices.