The Curriculum Studies Reader

by David J. Flinders (Editor), Stephen J. Thornton (Editor)

In this sixth edition of David J. Flinders and Stephen J. Thornton’s ground-breaking anthology, the editors assemble the best in past and present curriculum studies scholarship. From John Dewey’s nineteenth-century creed to Nel Noddings’ provocative call to revive the spirit of the liberal arts, this thoughtful combination of well-recognized and pivotal work provides a complete survey of the discipline, coupled with concrete examples of innovative curriculum and an examination of current topics. New to this edition is a dynamic set of contemporary and historical contributions tackling issues such as high-stakes testing, multicultural literacy, white supremacy in the curriculum, and climate change. Carefully balanced to engage with the history of curriculum studies while simultaneously looking ahead to its future, The Curriculum Studies Reader continues to be the most authoritative collection in the field.

Genres: Education, Nonfiction, Grad School

472 pages, Paperback

First published August 19, 1997

Reviews

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

In looking at what we can garner from the whole of curricular theory, we see a rich map from which to draw our conclusions. If we take the intent and apply our own thinking we really do come up with strategies and expectations that benefit the student, the teacher and the whole of postmodern curriculum and instruction. It is important to understand that curriculum is ever evolving and ever changing and if we don’t adapt to those changes we fail to achieve the main goal of curriculum. We fail to give children what they need to be successful. We are preparing students for a constantly changing world, it is important that we enable and give them the proper tools to adapt to it.

Oh, and I've started a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction...expect lots of complaining...

[Tracy Jentzsch]

I actually read the fifth edition of this book for a graduate level course on Teaching in Higher Education. If you have an interest in pedagogy, this is a great primer. Broad overview of principles and foundations of curriculum studies, including the works of Bobbitt, Montessori, Addams, Counts, Tanner and of course, Dewey.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Curriculum Studies Reader, 6th Edition is a city with cultural, political, philosophical, economic, and social justice neighborhoods. It explores the historical evolution of curriculum from its scientific conception, its reconceptualization, and the changes and continuity today. By nature a reader is “a collection of informed and influential writings” of past and present trends in curriculum scholarship. It chronologizes pivotal pedagogies of recognized scholars that inform educational research, policy and practices. Ultimately, it describes the perspectives of education’s Founding Fathers and Mothers including Susan Santone, Lev Vygotsky, W.E.B. DuBois, John Dewey, and Maxine Greene as a lens through which to view the kaleidoscope of knowledge.

[Terynce · Rating 4 out of 5]

Far and away not the worst book I've read for class. I won't review it as if I were reading for enjoyment, but I did enjoy several of the included selections. Others were dry as all get out.

If you are interested in curriculum studies it's a good read. Moves through time in a way that makes sense. Well organized. Solid selection.

[Natalie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I admittedly did not read the whole book, merely some selected readings for a grad school class. There's a decent assortment of articles here, some I really enjoyed, others not so much.

[Emily Brooks]

For a course textbook on curriculum survey, pretty good.

[Jillian Hermanson · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5/5

[Rachel Freimanis · Rating 1 out of 5]

Finally done my first Masters class textbook… do not recommend.

🤪

[Anthony Barra]

A reminder that a) some of our best ideas are in the past, not waiting in the future, and b) everything we do could be done differently, and often just as well. A book to encourage humility & invention.

[Molly Giddens · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reading for class...

Pretty ok, if you're looking for theory. Gives background on curriculum.

[Lorin]

Elliot Eisner ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Natalie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Honk shoo! I have to read it for a class!

[Charlene Kenny]

Boringggggg

[Connor Oswald · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this was 90% of the reading I did for my Master's

[Emma Refvem]

I read basically every chapter of this book for my grad class, so I'm def adding it to my book count for the year.

Interesting collection of articles that explores the history of curriculum development. Some really interesting twists and turns if you ask me. I think I was one of the only students in class who enjoyed this topic... Fav moments are Montessori talking about how prizes and punishments in classrooms are like the "bench of the soul", and obviously everything Friere ever writes tbh.