Problems surrounding curriculum and curriculum theories are analyzed from two different viewpoints: (1) the search for the identity of curriculum; and (2) the relationship between curriculum theory and practice. The present complexity and paradoxes to be found in curriculum are discussed. (CJ)

Research on three classroom environment instruments is discussed, including predictive validity studies and criterion validity studies. A heuristic model involving curriculum, aptitude, environment, and learning is used to conceptualize the variables' roles in curriculum evaluation research. Evidence suggests that curriculum influences classroom…

Brief summaries are offered for various childhood intervention programs. The expected major differences between curricula were not obtained. It is suggested that the basic issues in successful programing relate to the quality of program implementation rather than the philosophy of curriculum selected. (Author/GK)

A curriculum theory begins in the transference of meaning from the familiar and the comprehensible to the abstract and perplexing problems arising from the actual teaching situation. These metaphors that evolve into theories serve to direct research by creating a symbolic language. (JN)

This article, concerning the importance of and need for educational theory, elucidates the etymology of the word "theory," describes the importance of ethnomethodology to educational principles, and views the concerns of epistemology to curriculum theory. The question "What is the good of theory?" is debated in relation to the…

Explores the connections between language, curriculum theory, and social studies. Six language modes--descriptive, explanatory, controlling, legitimating, prescriptive, and affiliative--are defined, and their use in classrooms and social studies curricula discussed. The author suggests that this type of linguistic analysis be used as a basis for…

This is a philosophical exploration of the role of educational conventions guiding teacher behavior. Although concepts like basic skills and grade level influence teacher decisions about daily teaching activities, they can also serve as conceptual points of departure when teachers decide to innovate. (AM)

Describes a survey which found a wide gap between the actual and the ideal content in graduate nursing programs, which indicates changing roles and expectations of master's-prepared nurses. Data tables illustrate the findings. (CT)

A plausible set of concepts useful for theory, research, development, and evaluation concerned with content sequencing is explicated. These concepts provide a framework for discussing sequencing alternatives and their implications. (Author/RC)

After rejecting the extremes of complete coordination and no coordination in answering the question posed in the title, authors make the case for the middle ground. They then proceed to emphasize some points they consider essential to any educational program. (Editor/RK)

This paper begins a construction of curricular history by addressing the social orientation of Thorndike's psychology and its implications for the curriculum field. (MM)

Reports on what proved to be one of the more challenging issues raised by the feedback to principles and Standards for School Mathematics: Discussion Draft and how that feedback was used to create a more effective final document. (KHR)

Examines the ideal ecology curriculum in terms of education rationale, goals, and content. Reviews available data sources with regard to environmental education. (KHR)

A paper drafted nearly 30 years ago defines distinctions between theoretical and ideological inquiry, between curricular and noncurricular events, and between instructional and agential kinds of curricular events. (31 references) (MLF)