Deliberation+Model

=Deliberation Model =

Whereas many curriculum models are linear, the Deliberation Model is non-linear and even subjective in nature. According to O'Neill (2010), this approach "addresses the gap between complete freedom for students to choose what they would like to learn and the prescription of learning." Ornstein and Hunkins (2009) add that the Deliberation Model takes into consideration "diverse cultures, customs, and values" (p. 221). Also known as a conversational approach, educators sit down together, discuss what does belong and what does not belong in the curriculum, deliberate over all suggestions, and finally decide what constitutes an effective curriculum in their particular district. Ornstein and Hunkins (2009) describe the process as "dynamic, but fraught with uncertainty" (p. 223).
 * Description of the Approach **

1. Public sharing 2. Highlighting agreements and disagreements 3. Explanations of positions 4. Highlighting changes 5. Negotiating points of agreement 6. Adopting a decision
 * Process Steps as stated by Ornstein & Hunkins (2009) **

Francis Hunkins Decker Walker
 * Leading Proponents **

Lunenburg. F. (2011). Curriculum development: Inductive models. Schooling, 2(1). Retrieved from [|www.national] forum.com O'Neill, G. (2010). Programme design: Overview of curriculum models. UCD Teaching and Learning/Resources. Retrieved from [] Ornstein, A.C. & Hunkins, F.P. (2009). Curriculum: Foundations, principles, and issues (5th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson.
 * Information Resources **

To implement this type of approach requires an open-mindedness and patience far beyond what is normally expected in curriculum design because of the conversational and deliberative nature of the process. Since the approach is so learner-centered and specific to the needs of each school, a district-wide curriculum guide would have to be considered a work in progress and undergo constant change as the needs change. In fact, O'Neill (2010) states, "The model suggests a deliberative process whereby the educators make known thier ideas to the students and together plan an educational journey."
 * Strategies for Implementation **

By: Susan Hall