Analysis of Curriculum Theory in University Textbooks of Iran

This paper examines the curriculum theory university textbooks of Iran. In introduction, some definitions of curriculum, the status of theory and theorizing in curriculum as a scientific discipline and also the history, nature and functions of curriculum theory have been examined. Then, by a purposeful selection of Iran's university textbooks in curriculum theory courses, some criteria have been developed to evaluate the content of these textbooks. The results showed that the textbooks, regarding 11 criteria of evaluation, are in an average or low average level and none of them can fully cover curriculum theory subject matters. The most common subject matters that have been presented in the relevant textbooks include the nature of curriculum theory, typology of curriculum theory, relation between curriculum theory and foundations of curriculum design, and relation between curriculum theory and elements of curriculum. Finally, the article proposes compilation of a comprehensive university textbook for curriculum theory, and presents its features.