Understanding Tylers and Tabas Models of Curriculum Development

Curriculum development is a critical process in education, guiding the learning journey of students. Two prominent models, Tyler's and Tabas' models, offer distinct approaches to this process. This article explores the key differences between these two influential frameworks.

Philosophical Foundations

Both Tyler's and Tabas' models are rooted in different philosophical frameworks, shaping their methodology and objectives.

Tylers Model of Curriculum Development

Tyler's model is rooted in a technical-rational philosophy. This approach emphasizes efficiency and effectiveness, with a strong focus on clear learning objectives. According to Tyler, the curriculum development process begins with defining learning goals, selecting appropriate content, organizing learning experiences, and evaluating student outcomes.

Tabas Model of Curriculum Development

In contrast, the Tabas model is grounded in a humanistic and constructivist philosophy. This approach prioritizes student involvement and individual needs, emphasizing a more flexible and cyclical process. Taba's model begins by identifying the students' needs, interests, and experiences, and then proceeds through a continuous cycle of feedback and revision.

Nature of the Process

The nature of the curriculum development process differs significantly between these two models.

Tylers Model

Tyler's model follows a linear, systematic approach. It proceeds through a series of logical steps, ensuring that each phase is completed before moving on to the next. The process is defined by its structured nature, with a clear emphasis on efficiency and effectiveness.

Tabas Model

Taba's model, on the other hand, is a more cyclical and dynamic process. It places a strong emphasis on continuous feedback and revision, allowing for adaptability and flexibility. This approach emphasizes the importance of a holistic and flexible view of curriculum development, ensuring that the needs of individual students are met.

Starting Point

The starting point of the curriculum development process is also a key area of differentiation between Tyler's and Tabas' models.

Tylers Model

Tyler's model begins with clearly defined objectives. These objectives guide the entire curriculum development process, including the selection of content and teaching methods. The model is heavily oriented toward predictability and a top-down approach, where objectives are set before any content is developed.

Tabas Model

In contrast, Taba's model starts with the identification of learners' needs, interests, and experiences. This bottom-up approach recognizes the unique characteristics of each student, ensuring that the curriculum is tailored to meet individual learning needs effectively.

Role of Teachers

The role of teachers in the curriculum development process differs significantly between these two models.

Tylers Model

In Tyler's model, teachers play a central role in implementing predetermined objectives. Their primary focus is on delivering content and assessing students based on predefined criteria. This model places a strong emphasis on the importance of meeting objective learning outcomes.

Tabas Model

Taba's model views teachers as facilitators, emphasizing collaboration and flexibility. Teachers in this model work closely with students, collaboratively identifying learning needs and shaping the curriculum to meet those needs. The emphasis is on adaptability and responsiveness to individual student requirements.

Flexibility and Adaptability

Flexibility is a key aspect that sets Tylers and Tabas' models apart.

Tylers Model

Tyler's model, due to its structured nature, is less flexible. The process is designed to be rigid and predictable, with a clear sequence of steps that must be followed. While this ensures consistency and standardization, it can also limit adaptability to individual student needs.

Tabas Model

In contrast, Taba's model is highly adaptable and flexible. The cyclical nature of the process allows for continual feedback and revision, ensuring that the curriculum remains responsive to the evolving needs of students. This flexibility is a key strength of the Tabas model, enabling it to meet the diverse needs of learners effectively.

In conclusion, Tyler's and Tabas' models of curriculum development offer distinct approaches to addressing the needs of students. While Tyler's model is rooted in a technical-rational philosophy, emphasizing efficiency and effectiveness, Taba's model is grounded in a humanistic and constructivist philosophy, prioritizing student involvement and individual needs. Understanding these differences can help educators choose the most appropriate model for their context, enhancing the quality and effectiveness of the curriculum development process.