Hilda Taba Concept Development Model vs. Understanding by Design

Attribute	Hilda Taba Concept Development Model	Understanding by Design
Focus	Emphasizes the importance of organizing curriculum around key concepts	Focuses on identifying desired results, determining acceptable evidence, and planning learning experiences
Process	Uses a step-by-step process of concept development, including framing, investigation, and application	Utilizes a backward design process, starting with the end goals and working backwards to plan instruction
Assessment	Assessment is integrated throughout the concept development process	Emphasizes the importance of aligning assessments with desired learning outcomes
Teacher Role	Teachers act as facilitators of learning, guiding students through the concept development process	Teachers play a key role in designing meaningful learning experiences and assessments

Introduction

When it comes to designing curriculum and instructional strategies, educators have a variety of models to choose from. Two popular models are the Hilda Taba Concept Development Model and Understanding by Design. Both models aim to enhance student learning by focusing on the development of deep understanding and critical thinking skills. In this article, we will compare the attributes of these two models to help educators make informed decisions about which one may be best suited for their needs.

Overview of Hilda Taba Concept Development Model

The Hilda Taba Concept Development Model is a curriculum development model that emphasizes the importance of organizing content around key concepts. Taba believed that students learn best when they are able to make connections between different ideas and concepts. The model consists of several stages, including selecting content, organizing content around key concepts, and developing instructional strategies to help students understand these concepts. Taba's model is often used in social studies and science education.

Overview of Understanding by Design

Understanding by Design, developed by Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe, is a curriculum planning framework that focuses on designing instruction with the end goal in mind. The model is based on the idea that students should be able to demonstrate their understanding of key concepts through performance tasks and assessments. Understanding by Design consists of three stages: identifying desired results, determining acceptable evidence, and planning learning experiences and instruction. This model is widely used in all subject areas.

Comparison of Key Attributes

Both the Hilda Taba Concept Development Model and Understanding by Design share some key attributes that make them effective curriculum development models. One of the main similarities is their focus on organizing content around key concepts. Both models emphasize the importance of helping students develop a deep understanding of essential ideas and concepts. Additionally, both models encourage educators to design instruction that promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

However, there are also some differences between the two models. The Hilda Taba Concept Development Model places a strong emphasis on the role of the teacher in guiding students through the learning process. Taba believed that teachers should act as facilitators, helping students make connections between different concepts and ideas. In contrast, Understanding by Design focuses more on student-centered learning, with an emphasis on students taking ownership of their learning and demonstrating their understanding through performance tasks.

Implementation in the Classroom

Both the Hilda Taba Concept Development Model and Understanding by Design can be effectively implemented in the classroom to enhance student learning. Educators who choose to use the Taba model may find it helpful to start by selecting key concepts that are essential for students to understand. They can then organize content around these concepts and develop instructional strategies that help students make connections between different ideas. Teachers using Understanding by Design, on the other hand, may begin by identifying desired results and designing performance tasks that allow students to demonstrate their understanding.

Regardless of which model educators choose to use, it is important to remember that both models are designed to promote deep understanding and critical thinking skills. By implementing either the Hilda Taba Concept Development Model or Understanding by Design, educators can help students develop the skills they need to succeed in school and beyond.