Higher education curricula for human and social development

Abstract

This article examines issues relating to the development, delivery and evaluation of higher education curricula that aim to facilitate learning in the context of human development and social change. The paper begins by reviewing alternative conceptual and philosophical approaches that underpin higher education curricula, based on differing perspectives on knowledge and power, and the interplay between these in a time of globalization and growing complexity. It draws on evidence of existing relationships between curricula in higher education institutions and curricula at other levels of education systems, and the dominant pedagogical approaches that are determined by these relations. The paper identifies a range of key elements currently found in higher education curricula internationally – including citizenship, sustainable development and multiculturalism – which are consistent with the notion of human and social development. It then considers the range of potential learning needs in a globalizing world that may be addressed by higher education institutions. Taking into account issues of existing capacity, as well as needs for institutional strengthening, the paper finally suggests some key elements for the design, delivery and evaluation of interdisciplinary curricula that will help to meet learning needs in the future.