Curriculum

Definition

Curriculum refers to the structured set of learning experiences and intended outcomes that educational institutions design for students. It encompasses the subjects taught, the content covered, and the teaching methods employed to achieve educational goals. In the context of Early Modern English, curriculum reflects how language and literature were integrated into educational frameworks, influencing how knowledge was disseminated and cultural values were conveyed during this period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. During the Early Modern English period, the curriculum began to include a greater emphasis on grammar and rhetoric, influencing how English was taught.
2. The advent of printing in this period contributed to the standardization of texts used in curricula, which helped shape language usage.
3. Shakespeare and other playwrights became integral to the curriculum as their works were studied for their linguistic and cultural significance.
4. The Reformation led to changes in curricula, as religious texts became prominent in education alongside classical literature.
5. Universities established in this period focused on a curriculum that included classical languages, philosophy, and the emerging study of English literature.

Review Questions

• How did the structure of the curriculum during the Early Modern English period influence the teaching of language and literature?
  • The curriculum in the Early Modern English period was structured to emphasize grammar and rhetoric, which shaped how language was taught. This focus not only improved students' understanding of English but also elevated the status of English literature as a subject worthy of study. As educators incorporated works from playwrights like Shakespeare into their teaching, students gained exposure to diverse linguistic styles and cultural themes, enhancing their appreciation for the language.
• Discuss the impact of the printing press on the curriculum during the Early Modern English period and its implications for education.
  • The printing press had a transformative effect on the curriculum during the Early Modern English period by allowing for the widespread distribution of texts. This facilitated a standardization of written English, as educational materials became more accessible. As a result, educators could adopt similar texts across different schools, which fostered a more uniform approach to teaching language and literature while promoting literacy among a broader audience.
• Evaluate how changes in religious thought during the Early Modern English period affected the content and focus of educational curricula.
  • Changes in religious thought during the Early Modern English period significantly influenced educational curricula by incorporating religious texts alongside classical literature. The Reformation prompted schools to include Protestant texts in their instruction, which altered not only what was taught but also how it was perceived by students. This shift not only expanded the scope of curricula but also instilled new moral values and perspectives that aligned with contemporary religious beliefs, ultimately shaping students' understanding of both language and society.

Related terms

Syllabus: A document that outlines the specific topics, objectives, and assessment methods for a particular course within a curriculum.

Pedagogy: The art or science of teaching and instructional methods used to facilitate learning.

Literacy: The ability to read and write, which was significantly influenced by the curriculum in Early Modern English, as literacy rates began to rise during this time.