The Null Curriculum: What We Don’t Teach Our Students (with Examples)

The null curriculum is the part of the curriculum that is not taught. It includes topics that are omitted, experiences that are not provided, and choices that are not given to students. The null curriculum can be just as important as the formal curriculum, because it can shape students’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes in significant ways.

In this article, we will explore some examples of the null curriculum. We will discuss the reasons why certain topics are omitted from the curriculum, and we will consider the implications of the null curriculum for students’ learning.

What is the null curriculum?

The null curriculum is the part of the curriculum that is not taught. It includes topics that are omitted, experiences that are not provided, and choices that are not given to students. The null curriculum can be just as important as the formal curriculum, because it can shape students’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes in significant ways.

There are many reasons why certain topics are omitted from the curriculum. Sometimes, topics are omitted because they are considered to be unimportant or irrelevant. Other times, topics are omitted because they are controversial or sensitive. Still other times, topics are omitted because they are simply too difficult or time-consuming to teach.

Why is the null curriculum important?

The null curriculum is important because it can have a significant impact on students’ learning. When topics are omitted from the curriculum, students are not exposed to new ideas and perspectives. This can limit their knowledge and understanding of the world. In addition, the null curriculum can shape students’ attitudes and beliefs. For example, if students are not taught about different cultures, they may develop negative stereotypes about those cultures.

Examples of the null curriculum

There are many examples of the null curriculum. Some common examples include:

1. The omission of gender and sexuality education
2. The omission of critical thinking skills
3. The omission of financial literacy
4. The omission of information about indigenous cultures
5. The omission of information about the history of racism and discrimination

The implications of the null curriculum

The null curriculum can have a number of negative implications for students’ learning. These implications include:

1. Limited knowledge and understanding of the world
2. Negative stereotypes about other cultures
3. Lack of critical thinking skills
4. Financial illiteracy
5. Unawareness of the history of racism and discrimination

Conclusion

The null curriculum is an important part of the educational experience. It can shape students’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes in significant ways. Educators need to be aware of the null curriculum and its implications for students’ learning. They should work to ensure that all students have access to a rich and comprehensive curriculum that prepares them for success in life.

Bibliography

1. Eisner, E. W. (1985). The educational imagination: On the design and evaluation of school programs. New York: Macmillan.
2. Ravitch, D. (2010). The death and life of the great American school system: How testing and choice are undermining education. New York: Basic Books.
3. Sizer, T. R. (1992). Horace’s compromise: The dilemma of the American high school. Boston: Houghton Mifflin.