FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF BENIN (UNIBEN)
Asuquo Justice
Edu 2303375
EDU221 – Methods of Teaching Business Subjects
1. What is Curriculum
2. Development of Curriculum
3. Applying the basic skills in solving problems in Business
Education
1. What is Curriculum?
The term “Curriculum” is defined or gotten from the Latin word “Currere”, which means to run a
race or a course. It is the sum total of all the subjects that a learner is expected to know or have
comprehensive knowledge on over a given period of time. It is also the learning which is learned,
organised and guided by a school whether carried in group or individually within or outside the
school.
It can simply be put as the total learning experience, be it planned or unplanned that a learner
undergoes in the process of acquiring knowledge, skills, attitudes and values under the guidance
of the school or educational institution.
Curriculum can be viewed in two perspectives which include:
1. The traditional view
2. The modern view
In the traditional view, it is seen as the list of subjects or courses of study offered in schools.
While in the modern view, it is a dynamic process that goes beyond subject matter including
instructional materials, teaching strategies, extra-curricular activities and assessment methods.
Thus, curriculum is not only about what is taught (what is the content) but also how it is taught
(method) and why it is taught (objectives).
Key Characteristics of Curriculum
There are numerous characteristics of curriculum which include:
1. It is planned and systematic
A curriculum (be it formal or informal) should always be planned and also should be followed
systematically so as to yield or produce the needed result at the end of a given period.
2. It reflects the philosophy of education of a nation or institution
One of the major characteristics of curriculum is philosophy. Without curriculum, organisations
or institutions will lack the foundation of life if certain things are not put in place, just as
education is important to a country or nation.
3. It caters for the needs of the learners and societal development
Curriculum helps teachers know and understand what to teach, how to teach it, and it allows the
learner to understand what he/she is being taught by the teacher. This will help the learner think
or act in the right path thereby enhancing societal growth and development.
4. It includes academic subjects, vocational training, values and life skills
In the institution of learning the learners are taught different subjects at different levels, equipped
with vocational training in various fields which enables them to be creative and they come up
with critical skills valuable to their lives. This is also a major reason why curriculum is
important.
Development of Curriculum
Curriculum development is the systematic process of planning, designing, implementing and
evaluating learning experiences intended to achieve specific educational goals.
Steps in curriculum development include:
1. Needs Assessment
Identify the educational, social, and economic needs of the learner and the society. For example,
in business education, the need to equip learners with entrepreneurial skills, ICT skills and
problem-solving ability.
2.Formulation of objectives
Clearly state what the learners are expected to achieve. The objectives should be SMART, that is:
Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
3. Selection of Content
Choose subjects, topics, and experiences that align with the objectives. Contents should be
relevant, up-to-date and culturally appropriate.
4. Organisation of Content
Arrange topics in a logical sequence (from simple to complex, known to unknown, concrete to
abstract). For example, in Business Education, students should first learn bookkeeping before
moving to financial accounting.
5. Selection of learning experience
Decide on teaching strategies and methods such as lecture, group work, case studies, simulations
and ICT tools. Also ensure they promote active learning.
6. Evaluation and feedback
Assess the effectiveness of the curriculum through tests, exams, feedback and performance in
real-life applications. Revise and modify the curriculum as society and technology evolve.
2. Ways of Applying the Basic Skills in Solving Problems in
Business Education
Business Education equips learners with practical skills to function effectively in business
environments. To solve problems, learners can apply the following basic skills:
a. Communication skills
i. Writing clear reports, memos, and emails.
ii. Listening and interpreting information accurately.
iii. For instance: resolving a customer complaint through clear communication and negotiation.
b. Numeracy and Analytical skills
i. Using mathematics to analyse costs, profits and financial statements.
ii. Applying statistical tools to study market trends.
iii. Budget preparation and financial planning.
iv. Example: calculating break-even points to determine the viability of a business venture.
c. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
i. Identifying business challenges and proposing creative solutions using SWOT analysis
(Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) for decision making.
ii. Example: analysing why sales are declining and thereby recommending market strategies.
d. ICT and Digital Literacy Skills
i. Using computer applications like Excel, PowerPoint, and accounting software.
ii. Leveraging digital marketing tools for business promotion.
iii. Managing databases and online business platforms.
iv. Example: Solving inventory management problems using spreadsheets.
e. Entrepreneurial Skills
i. Recognizing business opportunities and risks.
ii. Planning, organizing, and managing resources effectively.
iii. Innovating products and services to meet customer needs.
iv. Example: Starting a small business by applying entrepreneurial knowledge and financial
management skills.
f. Teamwork and Interpersonal Skills
i. Working collaboratively with others to achieve business goals.
ii. Conflict resolution in group projects or workplace settings.
iii. Leadership and delegation.
iv. Example: Solving a production challenge in a company by brainstorming with team members.
QUALITIES AND ROLES OF A GOOD TEACHER
Qualities of a Good Teacher
1. Good Communication Skills – Able to explain concepts clearly and interact effectively with
students.
2. Patience – Understanding that learners have different learning paces and abilities.
3. Knowledgeable – Has mastery of the subject matter being taught.
4. Approachable and Caring – Creates a welcoming environment where students feel free to ask
questions.
5. Discipline and Integrity – Acts as a role model with good morals, ethics, and fairness.
6. Creativity and Innovation – Uses engaging teaching methods to make learning interesting.
7. Adaptability – Can adjust teaching strategies to meet diverse learners’ needs and changing
conditions.
Roles of a Good Teacher
1. Facilitator of Learning – Guides students to discover knowledge rather than just memorizing
facts.
2. Evaluator – Assesses students’ progress through tests, assignments, and feedback.
3. Mentor/Guide – Provides academic, moral, and career guidance.
4. Planner/Organizer – Prepares lessons, teaching aids, and manages the classroom effectively.
5. Motivator – Encourages students to reach their potential and build self-confidence.
6. Role Model – Demonstrates positive behavior, discipline, and professionalism for students to
emulate.
7. Counselor – Listens to students’ problems and offers support or guidance when necessary.
