Steppingstones to Curriculum: A Biblical Path Paperback – January 1, 2002

As stated in the preface of this book, it was written as a textbook for curriculum and instruction courses in Christian postsecondary institutions. It can also be used by teachers in Christian shools when developing their day to day classroom teaching plans. This book could also be of value to Christians who are teachers in the public education system.In my opinion, this book does not provide a cookie cutter approach to curriculum. In other words, it is not prescriptive. It is in fact descriptive and is focused towards the person that should already know that a Christian worldview is essential to a well grounded education. It is the filter through which we judge everything. Do not mistake this as a head in the sand approach to the world and education. Indeed, a Christian approach to education is much more difficult and much more challenging than any other sort of curriculum guide. It also produces much better results. As C.S. Lewis so eloquently stated, "Christian theology can fit in science, art, morality, and the sub-Christian religions. The scientific point of view cannot fit in any of these things, not even science itself. I believe in Christianity as I believe that the Sun has risen, not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else." This is why understanding the foundations of a Biblical Path towards curriculum is so desperately needed in today's education sector. The content of the book is 5 stars, the presentation brought it down to 4. Highly recommended.

While the book does bring out some good points about the nature of curriculum, it tends to be quite poorly written. Those who aren't wanting to have to sort through solid pages of dialogue will be quite disappointed as it tends to drone on in page after page of things that would be common sense additions for most Christians. The structure of the text as a whole is comprised of long opinion pieces dotted with only semi-related 'steps' in the curriculum building process.If you are looking for a text to help methodically build a curriculum from the ground up, this probably isn't it. It's ok for a quick read-through, but certainly shouldn't be considered a 'textbook'. This is one of ACSIs self-published titles, and as such, lacks the editorial rigor it probably needed to tighten up the text as a whole. But, given that there are so few books on the development of Christian curriculum, let alone how to integrate it into a secular school, it's not a total waste. It just could have been much better.

Great book, and excellent reminder for the Christian educator of our responsibilities in the classroom. My only complaint is actually about the kindle version of this book, which shows locations instead of page numbers. It makes accurately citing the book for papers and discussions a challenge.

This text was a good primer on what should be incorporated into curriculum however it is based upon Van Brummelen's assessment and theological underpinnings of which readers may disagree. The text does treat various worldviews, their approaches to curriculum, and the consequences of these approaches. Again, this is a primer and not an exhaustive, scholar assessment. It is recommended for those who are considering writing curriculum and considering what should be in it. Happy reading!

I bought this book as a supplemental for my wife to one of her Master's degree classes and she wishes they would use it as a primary text instead of what was offered. Great book according to her.

Take heart: teaching from a Biblical Worldview may seem impossible, but the author gives practical application examples and shows it is quite doable either in a public or private sector or in a college.

One of the best books I have read as a doctorate student. Normally, I read the portions required for my class assignments and move on to other text, I have finished my class and have re-read the entire book again. It is simply a terrific book, and will go well with the other Van Brummelen book I have bought!

I neeeded this for a doctorate level course. It is an interesting approach to curriculum. It includes a Christian approach to learning.