The HighScope Curriculum is a comprehensive approach to early childhood education based on active learning and child-centred instruction principles. The HighScope Curriculum, developed in the 1960s by Dr. David P. Weikart and his colleagues, has gained international recognition for its emphasis on encouraging children’s active exploration and problem-solving abilities. This approach is intended to foster critical thinking, independence and a lifelong love of learning.
The belief in active learning is one of the HighScope Curriculum’s guiding principles. The curriculum encourages children to participate in hands-on activities, make choices and take ownership of their own learning. Children in HighScope classrooms have numerous opportunities to initiate and plan their activities, collaborate with peers and reflect on their experiences. Children learn important skills such as problem-solving, decision-making and self-regulation through active learning.
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The ‘Plan-Do-Review’ process is central to the HighScope Curriculum. This cycle allows children to make meaningful decisions and reflect. During the planning phase, children select their activities and set learning objectives. They then put their plans into action, participating in individual or group activities that are relevant to their interests and goals. Finally, during the review phase, children reflect on their experiences, share their ideas and observations with peers and teachers and evaluate their progress. This process encourages children to become active participants in their own learning, promoting autonomy and self-evaluation skills.
The HighScope Curriculum also emphasises the development of key skills and abilities referred to as ‘Key Developmental Indicators’ (KDIs). These indicators cover a wide range of developmental domains, including social-emotional, physical, cognitive and language development. The KDIs guide educators in creating a balanced and comprehensive learning environment that addresses children’s holistic needs. Teachers can scaffold children’s learning experiences, support their progress and ensure a well-rounded education by intentionally focusing on the KDIs.
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The physical environment in a HighScope classroom is carefully designed to encourage active learning and exploration. Learning centres or areas are established to allow children to participate in a variety of activities. These facilities may include art, science, literacy, mathematics, dramatic play and other activities. Each centre’s materials are carefully chosen to stimulate children’s curiosity, creativity and problem-solving abilities. The classroom environment is designed to promote independence and self-directed learning, with materials labelled and easily accessible to students.
The teacher’s role in the HighScope Curriculum is that of a facilitator and partner in children’s learning. Teachers pay attention to children’s interests, engage in meaningful conversations and offer support and guidance when necessary. They interact positively and respectfully with children, fostering strong relationships and creating a safe and nurturing learning environment. Teachers also use anecdotal notes and portfolios to capture and share children’s learning experiences with their families.
The use of the ‘Daily Routine’ is one of the HighScope Curriculum’s distinguishing features. This structured routine gives children consistency and predictability, which fosters a sense of security and allows them to focus on their learning. Small-group time, large-group time, outdoor play and individual work time are all important components of the Daily Routine. These components provide a balance of teacher-directed and child-initiated activities, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience.
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The HighScope Curriculum is known for its research-based approach and has been the subject of numerous studies that demonstrate its effectiveness. Children who participate in HighScope programmes have higher levels of engagement, problem-solving skills and social competence, according to research. They also have higher academic achievement and more positive attitudes towards learning.
In a nutshell, the HighScope Curriculum is an all-encompassing approach to early childhood education that emphasises active learning, child-centred instruction and the development of key skills and abilities. The curriculum promotes independence, critical thinking and a love of learning by emphasising active exploration, decision-making and reflection. Educators who use the HighScope Curriculum create a rich and stimulating environment in which children can thrive and reach their full potential.
