HED4802 Assignment 2 Memo | Due 20 June 2025

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HED4802
Assignment 2
Memo | Due 20
June 2025
NO PLAGIARISM

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, Exam (elaborations)
HED4802 Assignment 2 Memo | Due 20 June
2025
Course

 Curriculum Studies (HED4802)
 Institution
 University Of South Africa (Unisa)
 Book
 Curriculum Studies in South Africa

HED4802 Assignment 2 Memo | Due 20 June 2025. 2 Essays provided.



Question 1 [50 marks +- 500 words] Curriculum design and implementation
are influenced by different paradigms of knowledge and learning. Using the
four paradigms of: positivism, interpretivism, critical theory, and post-
structuralism, critically evaluate how each paradigm shapes curriculum aims,
knowledge selection, teaching strategies, and assessment approaches in
schools. Provide examples to support your discussion.

Introduction

Curriculum design and implementation are deeply influenced by philosophical paradigms that
shape how knowledge and learning are perceived. Four prominent paradigms — positivism,
interpretivism, critical theory, and post-structuralism — each offer unique lenses through
which educational goals, content, pedagogy, and assessment are structured.



1. Positivism

Curriculum Aims:
Positivism emphasizes objective, measurable knowledge. Curriculum aims under this paradigm
focus on transmitting factual, universal truths and scientific knowledge to learners.

Knowledge Selection:
Content is based on established disciplines and empirical evidence, often prioritizing science,
mathematics, and standardized content.

Teaching Strategies:
Teaching is teacher-centered, relying on lectures, demonstrations, and repetition. The teacher is
seen as the authority, and learners are passive recipients.