ELT teachers today are faced with a bewildering choice of aims, methods and materials. How can they design or choose language curricula best suited to their learners' needs? What options are open to them in designing and introducing new Syllabuses and methods? In answering these questions, the author begins by reviewing historically the development of ideas on language teaching and language curriculum. He describes various types of syllabus, both past and current, and he highlights the assumptions, principles and aims underlying them. Proposing curriculum renewal is one matter; introducing it into an existing system is quite another. The effective management and implementation of curriculum change forms the basis of the successful introduction of new syllabuses, materials and methods, issues about which the author offers theoretical guidance and practical advice based on evidence derived form the study of innovation in education.

Ronald V. White is Associate Director of the Centre for Applied Language Studies at the University of Reading.