I would tend to value those directly respond to learner needs (eg. I think this will be useful for them) over those that are only (or primarily) following a pre-set list

There are many valid reason for choosing what to teach.

I would tend to value those directly respond to learner needs (eg. I think this will be useful for them) over those that are only (or primarily) following a pre-set list (eg. It's the language featured in the next coursebook unit).