12 Things You Need to Know to Be a Curriculum Developer

Summary

In this video, the speaker shares insights about transitioning from classroom teaching to curriculum development. They highlight 12 key considerations for anyone interested in this career, such as the need for independence, up-to-date knowledge on teaching standards, strong time management skills, and the ability to create engaging content. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of research, writing proficiency, and effective communication, along with being open to constructive criticism. Despite working longer hours, curriculum developers can enjoy flexible schedules. Ultimately, the speaker reminds viewers that, though the impact may be indirect, curriculum development still plays a vital role in students' learning.

Takeaways

• 🧑‍💻 Be comfortable working alone — curriculum development is remote and often requires long periods of independent work.
• 📚 Stay up-to-date on standards and teaching trends — you must know national, state, and frequently revised standards.
• ⏱️ Master time management — contractors often juggle multiple projects and must meet strict deadlines.
• 💸 Understand pay structures — most companies pay per project (not hourly), so speed and efficiency matter.
• ✅ Prioritize high quality — completing work fast is important, but turning in low-quality work will cost future opportunities.
• 🧩 Create standards-aligned, creative content — curriculum is like a puzzle: meet objectives while engaging diverse learners.
• 🔎 Be research-oriented — the role requires constant research into standards, pedagogy, data, and content accuracy.
• ✍️ Be prepared to write a lot — expect to write thousands of words per day and adapt writing for grade level and tone.
• 💬 Communicate clearly and professionally — strong virtual communication with supervisors and teammates is essential.
• 🧠 Self-train on technology — some companies provide training, but many expect you to learn tools on your own.
• ⏳ Expect long hours but flexible schedule — many developers work more than classroom teachers, but can control their calendar.
• 📈 Projects get easier with time — early batches/milestones are hardest; familiarity with a company’s expectations makes later work smoother.
• 🛠️ Accept constructive criticism — multiple rounds of editing improve accuracy and make you a better writer/developer.
• 🌟 You still impact students — even without direct classroom contact, well-designed curriculum can improve student outcomes.

Q & A

What are the main challenges that teachers face when transitioning to curriculum development?

One major challenge is adjusting to working independently. Many teachers are used to being around students and colleagues, and curriculum development often involves solitary work. Additionally, keeping up with the latest standards and research can be demanding, as well as managing multiple projects simultaneously.

How does a curriculum developer’s workload compare to that of a classroom teacher?

Although teachers often work long hours, curriculum developers tend to work even more. On average, a curriculum developer works 11-12 hours a day, six days a week. The flexibility of the role allows them to adjust their schedules, but the work hours are still substantial.

What skills are necessary for successful curriculum development?

Essential skills include time management, strong writing abilities (especially for different grade levels and purposes), creativity, research proficiency, and the ability to work independently. Communication skills are also important for collaborating with supervisors and teammates in a virtual environment.

Is prior knowledge of classroom teaching essential for becoming a curriculum developer?

While prior teaching experience is helpful, it is not strictly necessary. Curriculum developers need to understand teaching standards and trends, but they can acquire this knowledge through ongoing training and research.

What is a common misconception about the role of curriculum developers?

A common misconception is that curriculum developers don't understand classroom realities or the standards they write for. In reality, curriculum developers are constantly updated on teaching trends, standards, and practices, and they need to stay informed to create effective curricula.

Why is research important in curriculum development?

Research is vital because curriculum developers need to stay updated on educational standards, teaching trends, and ensure that content is accurate. It also involves analyzing data and researching content areas to create accurate and engaging materials for students.

How does a curriculum developer ensure their content is appropriate for different student demographics?

A curriculum developer must design activities that are engaging for all students, considering various learning styles, gifted students, and those with learning disabilities. This requires creativity in presenting the material while ensuring it meets educational standards.

How does time management play a role in curriculum development?

Time management is crucial as curriculum developers often juggle multiple projects simultaneously. They need to balance different deadlines, ensure that high-quality work is delivered on time, and avoid rushing through tasks, which could lead to subpar results.

What makes communication important for a curriculum developer?

Even though most of the work is done independently, effective communication with supervisors and teammates is essential. It ensures that expectations are clear, feedback is received constructively, and project goals are met.

What is the impact of constructive criticism in curriculum development?

Constructive criticism is an important part of the editing process. It helps improve the quality of the curriculum by making revisions based on feedback from editors, ensuring that content is accurate and aligned with the educational goals. Over time, constructive criticism helps developers become better writers and creators.