Curriculum Mapping
Curriculum mapping is a strategic process used to systematically organize and align curriculum, instruction, and assessment to ensure that learning objectives and standards are met throughout a course, program, or institution. It involves creating a “map” that outlines what is taught (content), how it is taught (teaching methods), how student learning is assessed (assessments), and what key skills and knowledge are emphasized. This mapping process often highlights essential questions and the sequence of topics to maintain a coherent, scaffolded learning experience.
The process of curriculum mapping is based largely on the work of Heidi Hayes Jacobs in Mapping the Big Picture: Integrating Curriculum and Assessment K-12 (ASCD, 1997) and Getting Results with Curriculum Mapping (ASCD, 2004).