Integrated Versus Skill-Based Curriculum - Essay Example

Integrated versus Skill Based Curriculum Integrated based curriculum is a curriculum aimed at developing the independence and interdependence of a child in order to be a motivated and efficient learner (Knight 9). Furthermore, Knight (11) states that an integrated curriculum focuses training on the needs of the students. Besides, the integrated curriculum acknowledges the importance of values and attitudes as central players in learning principles and concepts in all areas of study. As such the integrated curriculum helps in enhancing learning and teaching.

In the skill-based curriculum, students are allowed to explore their own skills and goals in a bid to make achievements. This system stresses ability demonstration through various ways. The evaluation method, in this case, includes teamwork and embraces non-academic skills, service consumers, job assessment by supervisors, role-playing, interviews, and documentation of experience not relevant to academics. From the principles outlined by the two types of curriculum development, I would decide on the best curriculum through critical evaluation of each type.

Therefore, I would choose the skill-based curriculum because it focuses on developing not only academic skills but non-academic skills as well. It gives room for the development of non-academic skills that students poses. In the current world, the greatest income earners are those engaged in extra curriculum activities like athletics and soccer. Therefore, if these talents can be nurtured at school, children who fail academically can use their talents to earn their daily bread. Moreover, a skill-based curriculum is more accountable for situations of learning that link fieldwork and theory.

It also promotes dialogue between the academic faculty and field professionals, with students getting the opportunity to actively participate in their areas of interest. Best Way to Incorporate Technologies in Teaching ESL The best ways to incorporate technologies into teaching ESL students is to integrate the best and appropriate technology into the design of their course in order to meet important teaching goals. The use of technological media greatly helps improve the learning of students. In incorporating technology, instructors should use resources that come with their textbooks like websites as suggested by McKernan (23).

Another great resource is the Internet considering its richness in information. The Internet provides valuable information, making the classroom or workstation become a global theatre that is easy to tour and complementing class notes. Using computers and the Internet for study makes studying more interesting as students learn how to read and pronounce words in the comfort of the computer lab. It is also advisable for instructors to consult each other because some better understand teaching with technology than others.

The instructor and students should work with the coordinator of their computer lab. These coordinators offer sufficient help in figuring out technological ideas that are ideal at different learning levels. Assigning technology projects that require the use of computer programs helps students develop their creativity. Some of the computer-based projects that English as Second Language students can do include making and presenting slide shows, drawing graphs, and preparing spreadsheets (McKernan, 47).

The instructor should also brush up on his own technological skills. This is possible by organizing workshops with the help of educational agencies and local colleges as suggested by Johnstone (5). While assigning projects to students teachers should ensure that they fully understand the programs that they are teaching about in order to be in a position to help them in case they encounter a problem as they work (Lorillard, 65). The best way to teach students who are defiant or unwilling to participate In some cases, students become defiant or unwilling to learn what they are being taught for one reason or another according to McKernan (34).

The best way to teach students who are defiant, reluctant to learn, shy, or unwilling to participate is by first finding the root cause of their actions and trying to address them. Secondly, it is important for teachers to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each one of the students McKernan (35). With this, they can then be involved in discussion groups that embrace these strengths and weaknesses. The instructor can also encourage students’ participation in the classroom and in extracurricular activities.

Rewarding active participants can encourage reluctant and unwilling students to participate. Defiant and shy students should be personally helped so as to address areas of their weaknesses.