We propose a method to determine the radius of curvature of an isotropic Gaussian Schell-model (GSM) beam by measuring the transverse beam widths and the transverse coherence widths at two different planes. Furthermore, we carry out experimental determination of the radius of curvature of a GSM beam. Using the measured beam parameters, we carry out a comparative study of the propagation properties of a GSM beam both theoretically and experimentally. Our experimental results agree well with theoretical predictions.