Strengths

Strengths and Benefits of a Society-Centered Curriculum

Why do our students need a society-centered curriculum?  The truth is, the traditional model of schooling has a number of shortcomings, and by adhering to this model, simply because it's "the way things have always been done," we do a disservice to our students.  The society-centered curriculum is an alternative approach that offers some exciting learning experiences, which will help our children grow into productive citizens and the problem-solving leaders of future.

• Whereas the traditional model of schooling engages children in artificial learning activities, the society-centered curriculum engages children in authentic, real-world problem solving (Ellis, 2004).
• The learning that happens in a society-centered school is more meaningful and tangible, because there is an immediate real-world application of knowledge.
• Students themselves bridge the gap between the textbook and their community.
• The society-centered curriculum promotes citizenship, as students become actively involved in the wider community.
• There is an audience beyond the classroom for students' work, which serves as an incentive and gives the students a greater sense of purpose.  The students can see how their efforts have an impact on the world around them.
• The society-centered approach supports student collaboration and teamwork in a more genuine sense than traditional models (Ellis, 2004, p. 72).
• The immediate, authentic, collaborative nature of the society-centered model leaders to higher levels of student engagement and a positive learning environment.
• In the traditional model, academic subjects are separate, but the society-centered model helps students make connections between all subject areas.
• Subject matter is viewed as a tool, rather than "an end in itself" (Ellis, 2004, p. 73)
• The society-centered curriculum is built upon the foundation of decades of educational theory.  It addresses multiple intelligences, by letting the students utilize their strengths and realize their individual potential.  It also adopts the progressive ideal of experiential learning -- the idea, most famously promoted by John Dewey, that children learn by "doing."

To see these strengths in action, please visit the Success Stories section of this site.