Characteristics, strengths & weaknesses - Curricula & courses
Curricula and courses of study designed and presented by leaders, teachers or experts in a particular field are often considered the most traditional and widely accepted method of education. Curriculum is a feature of formal education specifically received through primary, secondary and tertiary educational institutions. A curriculum generally follows prescribed syllabuses which outline the courses of study in relation to skills and competencies. People's interest in lifelong learning, and changes in society and technology, have resulted in extension or continuing education courses being widely available through universities, community colleges, home study, distance education, TAFE, and Workers Education Associations (WEA). The range of courses available today is extensive, catering for both vocational needs and special interests.
Back to top
Strengths
- courses are generally well planned, tested, accredited and presented by qualified people
- course components are generally mandatory—your information will reach your target group
- adult learners are usually involved because they want to be—interest and motivation are high.
Back to top
Weaknesses
- the strucure can be rigid
- it can take considerable effort, time and skill to have new courses approved or adopted
- integrating new content into existing curricula is time- and energy-consuming.
Back to top
Page last updated: 27 February 2011
