In program design, what is the difference between macro and micro curriculum?

In program design, what is the difference between macro and micro curriculum?

• A. Macro is short-term tasks; micro is long-term goals.
• B. Macro is broad program goals over time; micro is short-term lesson objectives and activities.
• C. Macro is safety rules; micro is etiquette rules.
• D. Macro is individual coaching; micro is group sessions.

Answer: (B)

Macro curriculum is the long-range design of a martial arts program—the broad goals, skill domains, safety standards, and the overall timeline across weeks, months, or a term. It answers where the program is headed and what major outcomes and belt-progressions it aims to achieve. Micro curriculum translates that big picture into the specifics of each class: the short-term objectives, exact drills, partner work, forms, and assessments that move students toward the macro goals, with pacing and difficulty tailored to the session. For example, a macro aim might be to develop solid kicking mechanics across a year; a single lesson would then have micro objectives like proper chamber, hip rotation, and controlled landings, with a clear, observable target. The distinction isn’t about safety versus etiquette or coaching style—it's about planning at different scales so daily instruction consistently advances the overall program.