For those exploring curricular approaches to learning beyond the classroom, the process may seem either straightforward or overwhelming. In reality, it’s somewhere in between. I’ve worked with almost 100 college campuses to consider, launch, or evolve their curricular approach. Wherever you are on your journey, here are three key phases you’ll encounter, along with practical steps to help you move forward.
1. Considering a Curricular Approach
At this stage, you’ve likely heard about curricular approaches but might still be unsure about what they entail, whether they suit your institution, or how to begin. Some team members may have attended ACPA’s Institute on the Curricular Approach, returning energized and eager to dive in, while others might be skeptical or uninformed. I was in the latter camp before attending my first Institute.
In this phase, the goal is to establish a clear understanding of the curricular approach: the why, what, how, and what if… (potential results) for your campus. Consider hosting a 90-minute to half-day workshop to explore the possibilities, answer questions, and lay the foundation for informed decision-making.
2. Launching Your Curricular Approach
Once your institution commits to a curricular approach, it’s time to design, implement, assess, and lead your curricular to fit your unique context.
The first step is to establish your learning aims, which include the educational priority, learning goals, outcomes, narratives, and rubrics. These aims act as a compass, guiding the entire organization toward a common goal. Think of your learning aims as defining a major for learning beyond the classroom.
Next, your educational plans function as syllabi, outlining how each functional area contributes to achieving those aims. Each functional area will narrow their focus, determine strategies, sequence learning experiences, and develop facilitation guides. Over the course of several weeks, a mix of virtual and in-person workshops can help your team build these plans and set the stage for success.
3. Evolving Your Curricular Approach
Even after developing a solid foundation, a curricular approach is never truly finished. At first, this might feel overwhelming, as though you’re on an endless treadmill. However, the evolving nature of this approach is what makes it powerful. It allows for continuous experimentation, reflection, and improvement in ways that better serve your students.
Connecting with colleagues who are also on this journey can help you stay motivated and inspired. Sharing struggles, strategies, and successes normalizes the process and provides fresh perspectives. Consulting experts can also provide insights into what works in various contexts, helping you refine your approach to best fit your institution’s needs. This can also help keep you inspired, knowledgeable, and moving forward.
Advancing Your Curricular Approach
No matter where you are in this process, I’d love to help you move forward by helping you keep the complex uncomplicated as you consider, launch, and evolve your curricular approach.
