Unveiling Hidden Curriculum

by: Hudson Riehl 

What is the “hidden curriculum” of colleges and why should students be interested in it?  Understanding the answer to both these questions can be a great asset to students.  The hidden curriculum of a university is designed to cultivate in the student a certain set of skills that will assist them in succeeding in their academic and occupational endeavors.

Through required courses of study including the sciences, humanities, language, history, mathematics and the arts, universities can ensure that their students are exposed to a specific set of academic disciplines.  These particular sets of courses are meant to produce a well rounded student who can demonstrate intellectual and practical skills.  Some of these skills include critical and creative thinking, written and oral communication, team work and problem solving as well as quantitative and information literacy.

Students can maximize the benefits of the hidden curriculum by enrolling in other courses that will further develop these skills and by engaging in activities that will give them an opportunity to apply and master these skills. There are numerous opportunities for students to develop these skills.  Students can become a research apprentice, instructor’s assistant, enroll in an honor’s independent project and join organizations like Psi Chi.  Participating in these types of activities will strengthen important skills such as team work, problem solving, and effective oral and written communication.

Individuals who possess these skills are the type of people employees are likely to employ and whom graduate schools are likely to grant admission.  For students considering attending graduate school, having the experience and abilities that are developed from these activities, particularly excellent writing skills are prerequisites for admission. Students who plan on entering the work force will have developed the confidence and the ability to demonstrate their skills in the work force.

The opportunities to develop the skills of the “hidden curriculum are abundant with organizations like Psi Chi. So do not wait another day to start developing and fine tuning the skills that will give you the advantage over the competition and that will help lead to a successful academic and occupational career.