After learning and reading about the Tyler rationale and curriculum as a product method, I realized that this was extremely common within my own schooling. This approach is based on providing clear guidelines of the outcomes so that educators have appropriate methods to how they teach and assess their students. My experience throughout elementary and high school was closely related to this approach as it was based on repetition and meeting objectives. In order to accomplish these objectives, we would learn through set PowerPoints and notes. After learning the material, we were asked to show what we know through repetitions of assignments and quizzes/exams. By displaying everything learned onto the exams and assignments, I was given a grade that would tell me if I achieved what was expected of me. 

When looking at the Tyler rationale, it is evident that there are some limitations to using it within education and the classroom. One of these limitations is the fact that students are told exactly what they have to learn and how this will become possible. By having such strict outcomes and teaching methods, the students will not be given a voice. All students learn differently, and by using only one learning style, could result in students not benefitting from the teaching methods being used in class and therefore, will not meet the expected outcomes. Another limitation is the measurability of objectives. In order to measure, objects need to be broken down. This can cause a problem in education as the focus is shifted onto “the parts rather than the whole; on the trivial rather than the significant.” This is largely evident in schools today. The students are learning so they can pass or “check a box” relating to meeting the objectives. The actual purpose of learning is often missed, and students only seem to be memorizing answers so they can pass the course. 

Even though the Tyler rationale has disadvantages, there are some benefits. By using this method, everything becomes more structured. Teachers were more structured because they all had a pre-determined plan to what they will teach and how they will teach it. The clear guidelines and outcomes make it easy for students to understand what they need to do and learn in order to become successful. Additionally, it gives students the responsibility in knowing what they need to do in order to achieve their academic goals. The repetitiveness of this method can also be seen as a benefit as to some students. Learning and practicing something over and over again, can help to remember and understand what is being taught and also what is expected of them. I believe that the structure within the Tyler rationale is necessary for education, but students should still be able to have a say in how they are learning so they can not only be successful, but also enjoy what they are learning.