Research Paper Topics in Curriculum Development

Curriculum development is a study of education systems, whether current or past, so writing about the topic involves discussing teaching methods, education research and theory. Such a research paper should have specialized focuses rather than broad approaches, Select a specific issue or field related to curriculum development and narrow the paper's focus as much as possible.

Narrow your broader topic to something succinct and manageable within English studies. If you select reading, look at how classic novels are being taught in today's public schools or what effect censoring "The Adventure of Huckleberry Finn" or "The Catcher in the Rye" has on teaching methods and learning. Focus on teaching methods for a handful of specific books and how these methods succeed or fail. Include research on student response to the sections and levels of reading competency from the age group you've selected.

Study groups of high school science classes within similar socio-economic backgrounds to compare and contrast the teaching of evolution and creation. Since the 1990s, such states as Kansas and Kentucky have de-emphasized the teaching of evolution in favor of representing the alternate intelligent design or creation theory. Explore what effect this change has had on general student reception to and understanding of basic scientific principles. Contrast an evolution-only curriculum with a creation curriculum to discover the concepts that students and teachers share and differ about.

Study the question of how curriculum and teaching methods reach students in a general population. Research a particular level of schooling, such as high school or elementary, or a specific grade to articulate what changes for improvement need to be made. Study retention rates or student comprehension through testing and classroom interaction. Explore what options that modern faculty have to improve their connection with students. Consider whether the traditional public school classroom dynamic remains relevant in the 21st century or does its influence wane in the face of a dominant culture.

Explore what effects the federal No Child Left Behind law has had on public school education. Study the effects of standardized testing on learning and grades. Research what other modern methods are working or failing in the classroom. Examine the role of high-tech teaching methods and technological or visual aides in the classroom. Write about what ways that the Internet and television can be used as positive learning resources.