Curriculum changes can stem from many sources in a school district. Some of them will be research-based decisions while others will be budgetary decisions. No matter the reason, changes can sometimes disrupt a learning environment if the educator does not handle them properly. As with most aspects of education, every day is a new day, and teachers must prepare for any situation that may arise.
Why Is Change Necessary?
Meeting the needs of students has become increasingly demanding; dated methods no longer deliver results. Learners fall into new categories, they learn differently than their teachers did and they live different social lives. Education must identify these changes and adapt. In order to provide students with the best education possible, education must grow and change.
Data-based decisions are also key when discussing changes in curriculum. Research and statistics are at the educational forefront, and educators must analyze these trends and integrate their results into their teaching. Districts should use best practice teaching analysis to ensure teachers are meeting the needs of all learners. Changes often take place rapidly, and districts must stay ahead of the curve to survive the change.
What Are the First Steps?
The first step in surviving curriculum changes involves planning. Districts, teachers and administrators alike need to come together on a strategy to address the changes. For any new initiative, they must generate goals or a mission statement that supports a data-based decision.
Secondly, teachers need to realize that curriculum must change over time. They need adequate information from their administrations, including timelines, objectives, and challenges associated with the changes. Teachers often resist new ideas because they worry about how it will affect their workloads. If the administration provides enough information on an appropriate timeline, teachers can seamlessly implement changes with less resistance.
In addition, the district must provide professional development to support the changes. Making teachers comfortable with new material ensures that they can present it to their students most effectively.
Master of Education in Administration
Those seeking a mastery of how to handle curriculum changes in a district may find the training they need in an online master’s degree in administration program. The online program can provide solid understanding of curriculum models, frameworks, policies and procedures. Not only can an online master’s degree program provide a focus on curriculum, it can also provide a thorough and up-to-date study of instructional leadership, teaching diverse learners and educational organization.
Curriculum changes are not easy, but they are inevitable. Administrations can streamline their integration with preparation, including goals, plans, strategies and professional development for teachers. With all of these elements in place, districts can easily survive curriculum changes.
Learn about the Lamar University online Master of Education in Administration program.
Sources:
Dixons Kings Academy: Practice: A Collaborative Approach to Successfully Tackling Curriculum Changes
National Association of Independent Schools: Why Curriculum Change Is Difficult and Necessary
