ASSIGNMENT

What is the difference between the traditional Tylerian model of curriculum and contemporary postmodern understandings of curriculum as presented in the texts "What is Curriculum Theory?" and "Curriculum Development in the Postmodern Era" ? Again, use relevant citations from each text. [Bonus question (kidding!): Are these assignment questions part of the Tylerian model, or another.

Response

The Tylerian rationale which comes from Ralph Tyler's book Basic Principles of Curriculum and Instruction, has dominated the curriculum field since its publication in 1949. It has been the springboard and influence for several generations of graduate students, teachers, supervisors, administrators, and curriculum specialists. Slattery acknowledges the historical contribution of the Tylerian Rationale, but challenges the assumption that it should be the basis of all curriculum studies. Pinar goes on to state that the Tyler Rationale establishes the basic procedure the curriculum should be reduced to objectives which can be measured through examination. Through this model a student is presented with material (objectives) that must be tested to measure retention and understanding. In contrast contemporary postmodern understandings of curriculum is allowing the student to make a self to text connection and feel connected to what is being taught or presented.
To me, the way I was taught mathematics as a student was a traditional Tylerian method. It was a kill and drill fashion that did not offer me a connection to my world. I remember opening up a black and white composition notebook and being told to "memorize" the chart in the back. Why? Because you need to know your multiplication facts, the teacher would reply. I had no idea what multiplication was, except that it was taught in fourth grade and you were expected to know it by the end of fourth grade. Today, in NYC children are using a program called EveryDay Mathematics which connects the students to their world and gives them meaning and purpose for their learning. It does not assume that children are going to memorize for the sake of memorizing but that children are going to learn through connection and will retain from enjoyment of learning.
Do I think these assignments are part of a Tylerian model or do I think they part of another model? I think that they are a combination of both. Some of the questions were quite specific and required a mechanical repeat of information, while other questions were open to the student's interpretation and connection to one's own life.