Resources - Archived Materials

Section Three: Recommendations-New Curriculum Directions

3.1 General strengths of the current curriculum

Information received from the stakeholders listed in subsection 2.2 helped us identify the strengths and weaknesses of the current curriculum outlined in subsections 3.1 and 3.2. The present science curriculum covers a wide range of content in terms of both the courses available and the topics included within the various courses. Students get good exposure to general and specific knowledge and skills and develop good verbal and debating skills. Most of them acquire a solid foundation of knowledge.

The content of the current curriculum is activity-based and recognizes the importance of process. In addition, it allows creative and individualized approaches and encourages a variety of assessment techniques. Some guidelines (e.g., environmental science) offer a multi-disciplinary focus and opportunities for co-operative learning.

The OAC Science and Society is a good example of a relevant course for those students who are not planning to study science after secondary school. It is an interdisciplinary course that highlights issues and encourages students to exaniine and challenge the role of science. When courses are made relevant in this way, students show an eagerness to learn.