Confused? Have no FEAR.... the curriculum FAQ is here!
Curriculum is a broad term that can often be used imprecisely. According to www.edglossary.com, “…curriculum typically refers to the knowledge and skills students are expected to learn, which includes the learning standards they are expected to meet; the units and lessons that teachers teach; the assignments and projects given to students; the …materials...used in a course; and the tests, assessments, and other methods used to evaluate student learning.”
At TCTC, we distinguish between what we call “above the line” curriculum and “below the line” curriculum.
“Above the line”
components that exist at the PROGRAM level, such as the structure of degree, diplomas, and certificates (what courses are included and how they are configured).
components at the COURSE level that are STANDARDIZED across all sections, regardless of instructor. These include things such as course descriptions, credit hours, class hours, lab hours, course competencies, and performance standards.
“Below the line”
components that exist “inside the classroom” at the section level, that are sometimes instructor-dependent, such as specific lesson plans, teaching and learning activities, assignments, reading selections, assessments methods, etc.
third-party content such as textbooks or external websites used within a course.
If you are interested in proposing a curriculum change (such as a change to your course sequencing, a new credential, a new course, or course pre/corequisites) contact your assigned Curriculum Consultant to discuss your ideas and develop a plan for moving forward.
The information required for curriculum proposals vary depending on the details of the proposed change. You will work with your assigned Curriculum Consultant to determine exactly what information will be required based on your individual proposal.
The approvals required for curriculum proposals vary depending on the details of the proposed change. Each approval level has their own deadlines and requirements which is why it is crucial to involve the Office of Academic Development as early as possible in any conversation regarding curriculum changes. Possible approval levels include:
Academic Development - Technical Review
TCTC Curriculum Committee
TCTC Commission
SC State Technical College System (SC Commission on Higher Education)
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)