The Curriculum Studies Reader

by David J. Flinders (Editor), Stephen J. Thornton (Editor)

This highly anticipated second edition of The Curriculum Studies Reader retains key features of the successful first edition while incorporating an updated introduction and new, timely essays. Grounded in historical essays, the volume provides context for the growing field of curriculum studies, reflects upon the trends that have dominated the field, and samples the best of current scholarship. This thoughtful combination of essays provides a survey of the field coupled with concrete examples of innovative curriculum, and an examination of contemporary topics like HIV/AIDS education and multicultural education.

Genres: Education, Nonfiction, Grad School

373 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 19, 1997

Reviews

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

In looking at what we can garner from the whole of curricular theory, we see a rich map from which to draw our conclusions. If we take the intent and apply our own thinking we really do come up with strategies and expectations that benefit the student, the teacher and the whole of postmodern curriculum and instruction. It is important to understand that curriculum is ever evolving and ever changing and if we don’t adapt to those changes we fail to achieve the main goal of curriculum. We fail to give children what they need to be successful. We are preparing students for a constantly changing world, it is important that we enable and give them the proper tools to adapt to it.

Oh, and I've started a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction...expect lots of complaining...

[Tracy Jentzsch]

I actually read the fifth edition of this book for a graduate level course on Teaching in Higher Education. If you have an interest in pedagogy, this is a great primer. Broad overview of principles and foundations of curriculum studies, including the works of Bobbitt, Montessori, Addams, Counts, Tanner and of course, Dewey.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Curriculum Studies Reader, 6th Edition is a city with cultural, political, philosophical, economic, and social justice neighborhoods. It explores the historical evolution of curriculum from its scientific conception, its reconceptualization, and the changes and continuity today. By nature a reader is “a collection of informed and influential writings” of past and present trends in curriculum scholarship. It chronologizes pivotal pedagogies of recognized scholars that inform educational research, policy and practices. Ultimately, it describes the perspectives of education’s Founding Fathers and Mothers including Susan Santone, Lev Vygotsky, W.E.B. DuBois, John Dewey, and Maxine Greene as a lens through which to view the kaleidoscope of knowledge.

[Terynce · Rating 4 out of 5]

Far and away not the worst book I've read for class. I won't review it as if I were reading for enjoyment, but I did enjoy several of the included selections. Others were dry as all get out.

If you are interested in curriculum studies it's a good read. Moves through time in a way that makes sense. Well organized. Solid selection.

[Natalie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I admittedly did not read the whole book, merely some selected readings for a grad school class. There's a decent assortment of articles here, some I really enjoyed, others not so much.

[Emily Brooks]

For a course textbook on curriculum survey, pretty good.

[Jillian Hermanson · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5/5

[Rachel Freimanis · Rating 1 out of 5]

Finally done my first Masters class textbook… do not recommend.

🤪

[Anthony Barra]

A reminder that a) some of our best ideas are in the past, not waiting in the future, and b) everything we do could be done differently, and often just as well. A book to encourage humility & invention.

[Molly Giddens · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reading for class...

Pretty ok, if you're looking for theory. Gives background on curriculum.

[Lorin]

Elliot Eisner ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Natalie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Honk shoo! I have to read it for a class!

[Charlene Kenny]

Boringggggg

[Connor Oswald · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this was 90% of the reading I did for my Master's

[Emma Refvem]

I read basically every chapter of this book for my grad class, so I'm def adding it to my book count for the year.

Interesting collection of articles that explores the history of curriculum development. Some really interesting twists and turns if you ask me. I think I was one of the only students in class who enjoyed this topic... Fav moments are Montessori talking about how prizes and punishments in classrooms are like the "bench of the soul", and obviously everything Friere ever writes tbh.