Ralph Tyler's Model vs. Saylor and Alexander Model

Attribute	Ralph Tyler's Model	Saylor and Alexander Model
Focus	Objectives and goals	Competencies and skills
Process	Systematic and sequential	Flexible and adaptive
Assessment	Emphasis on achievement of objectives	Continuous feedback and improvement
Curriculum	Content-driven	Outcome-based

Ralph Tyler's Model

Ralph Tyler's Model of curriculum development is one of the most influential models in the field of education. Tyler believed that curriculum should be designed based on clear objectives and goals. According to Tyler, the curriculum development process should start with identifying the needs of the learners and then defining specific learning objectives. These objectives should guide the selection of content, instructional strategies, and assessment methods. Tyler's model is often referred to as the "Tyler Rationale" and is characterized by its systematic and logical approach to curriculum design.

One of the key attributes of Tyler's Model is its focus on objectives. Tyler believed that clear and specific objectives are essential for effective curriculum development. By clearly defining what students are expected to learn, educators can design instruction that is aligned with these objectives. This helps ensure that students are provided with a coherent and meaningful learning experience. Additionally, Tyler's Model emphasizes the importance of evaluating the curriculum to determine whether the objectives are being met and to make necessary adjustments.

Another important aspect of Tyler's Model is its emphasis on the relationship between curriculum and assessment. Tyler believed that assessment should be closely aligned with the learning objectives to ensure that students are being assessed on what they are expected to learn. By using assessment data to evaluate student progress, educators can make informed decisions about the effectiveness of the curriculum and make adjustments as needed. This focus on assessment as an integral part of the curriculum development process sets Tyler's Model apart from other models.

Saylor and Alexander Model

The Saylor and Alexander Model of curriculum development is a more recent approach that builds on the principles of Tyler's Model while incorporating new ideas and perspectives. Saylor and Alexander emphasize the importance of considering the context in which curriculum is developed and implemented. They argue that curriculum should be responsive to the needs and interests of students, as well as the broader social and cultural context in which learning takes place.

One of the key attributes of the Saylor and Alexander Model is its focus on student-centered learning. Saylor and Alexander believe that curriculum should be designed to engage and empower students, allowing them to take an active role in their own learning. This approach emphasizes the importance of student voice and choice in the curriculum development process, as well as the use of diverse instructional strategies to meet the needs of all learners.

Another important aspect of the Saylor and Alexander Model is its emphasis on collaboration and community engagement. Saylor and Alexander argue that curriculum development should be a collaborative process involving educators, students, parents, and community members. By involving stakeholders in the curriculum development process, educators can ensure that the curriculum is relevant, meaningful, and responsive to the needs of all learners. This collaborative approach helps build a sense of ownership and investment in the curriculum among all stakeholders.

Comparison

• Both Tyler's Model and the Saylor and Alexander Model emphasize the importance of clear objectives in curriculum development. However, Tyler's Model focuses on defining objectives based on learner needs, while the Saylor and Alexander Model considers the broader context in which learning takes place.
• While Tyler's Model highlights the relationship between curriculum and assessment, the Saylor and Alexander Model places a greater emphasis on student-centered learning and collaboration. Both models recognize the importance of assessment in evaluating student progress and making informed decisions about curriculum effectiveness.
• Tyler's Model is known for its systematic and logical approach to curriculum design, while the Saylor and Alexander Model is characterized by its focus on student empowerment and community engagement. Both models offer valuable insights into effective curriculum development practices and can be adapted to meet the needs of diverse learners and educational settings.

In conclusion, both Ralph Tyler's Model and the Saylor and Alexander Model offer valuable perspectives on curriculum development. While Tyler's Model provides a systematic framework for designing curriculum based on clear objectives, the Saylor and Alexander Model emphasizes the importance of student-centered learning and collaboration. Educators can draw on the strengths of both models to create curriculum that is responsive, engaging, and effective in meeting the needs of all learners.