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Curriculum and Politics
Curriculum Conversation
(Names are fictitious)
Nicole- Excuse me, sir. Being that you're a politician and all. I thought I'd ask you to clarify some viewpoints and ideologies that I've been learning from my curriculum class.
Garcia- Ok! I'm all ears.
Nicole- So, curriculum reformers promote individualism. Right?
Garcia- Right!
Nicole- Also, I still need to conform even though my individuality is favored. Are you kidding me?
Garcia- Well, it's really for the good of society. We want people to be good. citizens.
Nicole- How come you can determine what's good and I cannot?
Garcia- Sigh...
Nicole- Anyway! I've been told that in individualism there is an emphasis on interdependence. And yet it's not imposed on me. How is that possible?
Garcia- It is possible because...
Nicole- Because nothing. You know perfectly well everybody needs somebody in this world to survive whether it's imposed on them or not.
Garcia- Well, yeah you're right
Nicole- Oh I am? Ok then. (Clear throat) Why are teachers being demoralized when standardized test scores are low?
Garcia- Well, they're supposed to teach the children what they need to know.
Nicole- How can they do that when the curriculum only requires them to teach "basic skills?" Which are the real reason for the dropouts and the inadequate preparation for college and employment.
Garcia- Teachers can still do more than they are actually doing.
Nicole- Are you saying they can do contrary to what the curriculum is asking?
Garcia- Well...
Nicole- Anyway! Why is there a plan to inculcate me so I can suit your dominant culture? Whatever happens to Heteroglossia? All of a sudden I cannot voice myself culturally. I need to be indoctrinated with yours? Really?
Garcia- Well, if you want to fully participate in my dominant culture that's what needs to be done.
Nicole- Are you kidding me? So my culture has to be hushed and muted so your culture can remain dominant?
Garcia- Remember we talked about the importance of people to bond. It will help if they're inculcated.
Nicole- How can my individuality be celebrated when I'm gonna be you in a few years with your curriculum? Your curriculum is full of politics!
Garcia- Honestly, it is non-political and no, you're not gonna be me in a few years. You're just gonna be fully integrated into the system.
Nicole- You know what? I don't think we're getting anywhere with your answers. I'm getting the parents involved now. The "choice" remains with the parents. Bye!
Garcia- Ok, bye.