week two curriculum versus instructional design

• What is your understanding of curriculum design as compared to instructional design?

As I read through the required readings for this week, I had an aha moment! I realized that the terms "curriculum design" and "instructional design" were different. I had been under the impression that they were interchangeable. Cranton (2000) explains it well as she lists the aspects of instructional design and says that instructional strategies include methods and materials (p.2. I have the second edition of this text). This and the rest of the list made it clear to me that the curriculum is the framework that we develop the instruction to. The instruction is how we choose to deliver the materials set out int he curriculum.

The term curriculum design encompasses the broad planning and design of the intended learning at the program level. It is basically looking at the "what" of the intended learning. Instructional design is the planning and design of the intended learning at the course and session levels. It is basically looking at the"how" of the intended learning.

• How is your perspective similar or different from the explanation above? In discussing this question, think of examples of programs and courses with which you are familiar. 

My new perspective is the same as this description. At the moment, I am designing the instruction for three courses that have gone "mobile" (using technology - iPads- to enhance the learning experience in the classroom). One of these is a hybrid (blended learning) course as well. As I follow the curriculum set out in the course outline and objectives I am designing the instruction that will align with these. Finding new ways of using the technology and creating some online coursework is the instructional design component. The curriculum design has already been set in place. I sit on the curriculum committee for my department. We periodically review the curriculum to determine whether it is still relevant and the information is still current. We then make changes to the curriculum. And, then I design the instruction.

• How might this explanation influence your perspective on your experiences with curriculum and/or instructional design?

As I stated earlier, I never really thought about the terms and used them interchangeably. I am more clear on the terms now and will use them knowlegably. :) C.