Curriculum

Definition

Curriculum refers to the subjects or courses offered by an educational institution or the set of planned and structured activities, lessons, and materials designed to achieve specific learning goals. It outlines what is to be taught and how it will be assessed in a school or academic program.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəˈrɪkjələm/
• Respelling: kuh-RIK-yuh-luhm

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəˈrɪkjələm/
• Respelling: kuh-RIK-yuh-luhm

The pronunciation of "curriculum" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "curriculum" comes from the Latin word "curriculum," which means "a running" or "course." It was derived from "currere," meaning "to run" or "to proceed." In educational contexts, it refers to the course of study or educational path designed for students to follow. The word was first used in this context in the early 19th century.

Derivatives

• Curricular (adjective)
• Curricula (plural noun)
• Extracurricular (adjective)
• Co-curricular (adjective)
• Curriculum vitae (noun)

Synonyms

• Program
• Syllabus
• Course of study

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The word "curriculum" is widely used in educational contexts to refer to the structure, content, and materials used in an academic program. For example: "The school is revising its science curriculum to include more hands-on experiments." It is often used when discussing what students are expected to learn and how they will be assessed.

Related Terms

• Syllabus: A document outlining the topics, readings, and assignments for a particular course.
• Pedagogy: The method and practice of teaching.
• Learning Objectives: Specific goals that define what students should know or be able to do after completing a course or lesson.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The subjects or courses offered by a school or educational institution: Refers to the structured set of academic subjects or programs.
  • Example: "The university offers a diverse curriculum that includes arts, sciences, and humanities."
• A plan for learning that includes specific content and activities: Refers to the designed plan for what is to be taught and how it will be delivered.
  • Example: "The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving skills."