Abstract: This is a critical review on the characteristics approach used in shaping the curriculum and its impact on teaching and learning. It analyzes 10 journals/book articles base on five characteristics of the curriculum. The terms discussed are research intensiveness, interdisciplinary, community engagement, global connectedness and academic literacy. These characteristics are compared and contrast with relevant information highlighting its impact on teaching and learning. It also further discusses the issues of concern regarding the processes on the delivery systems in learning organisations such as schools and higher learning institutions.