CSI600 Curriculum Theory: Historical, Philosophical and Political Issues

This course examines the historical, philosophical, and political contexts under which curriculum theories were shaped in the United States from 1890-1970. Students explore the changing and broadening concepts of curriculum. They examine the interest groups and ideologies that have been at the center of historical struggles for control. The course draws upon the work of influential curriculum scholars, capturing central and often contentious debates among them about the aims, directions, and goals of education. Students deliberate on perennial questions: What knowledge is of most worth? Whose interests are served? Who controls the distribution and assessment of "knowledge?" Prerequisite(s): Doctoral student or permission of instructor 3 semester hours