Pearson perspectives: Curriculum and Assessment Review
Our focus areas
To support this important conversation, we’re approaching our thinking in four focus areas. All the points of view we share are built not only upon the experience, expertise and evidence we’ve gathered over many years, but also draw on insights and support from the educators, learners and partners we work with day in, day out.
Knowledge, skills and breadth in the curriculum
We advocate for an ambitious curriculum with the right balance of foundational knowledge and skills, and the right level of breadth. For us, breadth includes the range of subjects studied, the breadth of opportunity in a subject, and the development of life/transferable skills. This must be considered carefully to achieve big picture goals for the curriculum with no unintended consequences.
Curriculum and the assessment system
We believe that curriculum should inform the assessment approach – not the other way around. In this area, we’ll consider what is most beneficial to assess and why, as well as what form of assessment is most appropriate. We’re especially interested in how technology and AI can contribute to improving the validity, reliability and management of assessment.
An inclusive curriculum and equitable assessment system
We believe in an inclusive curriculum and fair, equitable assessment approaches that support the diversity of all learners and allow them to show the best of their potential and capabilities. We believe technology has a role to play here in creating inclusive assessment.
Implementation
Focusing teachers on what they do best and removing the barriers that get in the way of that is crucial in this important area. Here, we’ll share the learning, insights and practical examples from leaders, educators and learners on implementing a system that prepares young people for successful, rewarding and fulfilling futures – in life, work and future study.
New report: Cultivating a creative curriculum
Providing opportunities for learners to explore creativity is one of the major contributions education can make to young people’s lives. That’s why we’ve brought together new research and wide-ranging work with educational institutions, leaders, teachers, students and sector experts to shape recommendations for the development of a broad and creative curriculum.