A curriculum and instruction degree prepares educators to develop, implement, and evaluate curricula and instruction in PreK-12 schools. Coursework in this degree typically includes topics in curriculum design, assessment, instruction, special education, and diversity. In addition, students are typically required to complete a practicum or internship, which allows them to gain hands-on experience in a classroom setting. Upon completion of a curriculum and instruction degree program, students are typically eligible to become certified teachers in their state.
As an educator with a curriculum and instruction degree, you will be able to develop engaging and challenging curricula that meet the needs of all students. Additionally, you will be able to evaluate student learning to ensure that all students are meeting learning goals.
Selecting a Curriculum and Instruction Degree Program
Curriculum and instruction degrees offer students the opportunity to learn about the most effective ways to teach students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. Curriculum and instruction degrees can be found at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Students in a curriculum and instruction degree program learn about the different subjects that students learn in school, the best teaching practices for each subject, and how to create effective curricula. Best of all, you can even learn everything you need to know by pursuing a curriculum and instruction masters online. Many curriculum and instruction degree programs also offer students the opportunity to student teach.
Completing Your Curriculum and Instruction Degree
It typically takes about two years to complete a curriculum and instruction degree. However, this may vary depending on the program and your individual schedule. You’ll certainly need to learn about a variety of teaching methods, which typically involve topics such as how to create a positive learning environment, how to manage a classroom, how to adapt instruction to meet the needs of students, and how to assess student learning. Many teaching methods courses also provide students with the opportunity to practice teaching in a real classroom setting.
Developing A Curriculum
In order to develop a curriculum, teachers must first understand the standards set by their state and district. They then must create learning objectives that meet or exceed these standards. Once the objectives are in place, teachers can select instructional materials and create lesson plans that will help students meet these objectives. Throughout the curriculum development process, teachers must continually assess student learning to ensure that they are making progress.
Instructional Strategies for Different Learners
Coursework for a curriculum and instruction degree covers a variety of topics, such as assessment, differentiated instruction, instruction for English language learners, and special education. Instructional strategies are best matched to the needs of the students. Some strategies that may be used include whole group instruction, small group instruction, cooperative learning, and individualized instruction.
It’s also important for instructors to make students aware of all the resources available to them outside of class. Naturally, this includes things like the library and computer labs, but it also includes resources like the top college counseling services. Once high school students are ready to take their next step toward college, counseling and interview prep are crucial for their success. Admissions counseling can help with the application process, application essays, and instruct college applicants about the top colleges and the college admissions process.
Overall, earning a degree in curriculum and instruction can prepare students for a career in teaching, curriculum design, and more. The curriculum and instruction degree can be earned online or on-campus, and typically takes about two years to complete. Graduates of a curriculum and instruction degree program can find careers as teachers, curriculum designers, instructional coordinators, and more.
