In Smith’s article, Curriculum Theory and Practice, the author emphasizes that Tyler’s rational relies on four fundamental questions:
- What educational purposes should the school seek to attain?
- What educational experiences can be provided that are likely to attain these purposes?
- How can these educational experiences be effectively organized?
- How can we determine whether these purposes are being attained?
I experienced Tyler’s rationale throughout my education experience. For example, my elementary and high-school years were based on curriculum as a syllabus and as a product. I was mainly required to memorize the course material and produce my written work on an assignment or examination setting. Even in university courses, I am still required to memorize information and produce my knowledge in an exam. Just last semester, I experienced the curriculum as a praxis. This important method allows people and communities to reflect on the past and transform the current environment. For example, I was sent to a local community school for a field work component in my course. Here, I was required to volunteer by preparing and distributing the students’ meals. Sharing is a powerful tool because it gives everyone equal opportunities.
Tyler’s rationale has multiple major limitations. For example, if students have difficulties in the first method, then, their grades will be strictly based on the information that is being retained from the course. This is also troubling for students who want to improve their written performance, unless the teacher has supported and appreciated the needs of their students.
There are many benefits of Tyler’s rationale, such as providing a system and order for students and educators to follow. For example, students will have the ability to understand the topics, concepts, and information that are being discussed in the course. Keeping this benefit in mind, teachers are able to instruct and support their students in many ways.
References:
Tyler, R. W. (2018, June 4). What is Curriculum? Exploring Theory and Practice. infedorg. Retrieved February 9, 2023, from https://infed.org/mobi/curriculum-theory-and-practice/