In its broadest application, curriculum is the sum of all learning influences and interactions experienced by the learner in the local learning environment.

The Physical Side of Curriculum

1. The arrangement of the furniture in the room.
2. The temperature and ventilation of the room.
3. The color of paint on the walls.
4. The attractiveness of the room.
5. The nutritional state of the learner.  

The Interpersonal Side of Curriculum

1. The size of the learning group.
2. The friendliness of the youth leaders.
3. The teaching methods utilized. (See: Active Learning)
4. The learning styles of the learners.  

Each of these influences and interactions is important to learning and must be a part of an effective strategy for youth ministry. A youth leader must be aware of, and strive to utilize to the best advantage, all the elements of the curriculum, not just curriculum materials.

Curriculum Materials - the resources utilized in the local learning environment which communicate a given curriculum plan.

Curriculum Plan - a structure, framework or design, which organizes all the subject matters and activities of a selected religious education endeavor. Such a structure guides the teachers and leaders in the process of communicating those subjects and activities to the learner. (See: Cornerstone Curriculum Plan.)

Local Learning Environment - the place where the curriculum plan is put into action, where the learner interacts with, and is influenced by the curriculum. For youth ministry in local church settings, this environment includes the youth Sabbath School room and the other places where the youth group meets for social as well as Sabbath activities, including the home of the youth leader.


From: ABZ’s of Adventist Youth Ministry
Permission to copy for use in the local congregation or group.