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Interdisciplinary teaching can result in deeper understanding
Department of Masters in Education, University of people
EDUC 5282-01: Advanced practices SEC STEM
Dr. Archana Vadeyar
October 25, 2023
Interdisciplinary teaching can result in deeper understanding
Abstract
Interdisciplinary teaching and learning in STEM education are argued to provide a more
authentic learning experience that paves the way for a deeper understanding. This paper explains
why this balanced approach of connecting many disciplines is important to deeper understanding
by considering both the benefits and challenges associated with this teaching method. The
discussion is supported by insights from academic sources and practical examples in the real
world. From this, the writer concludes that interdisciplinary teaching can result in a deeper
understanding.
Introduction
Interdisciplinary teaching and learning in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Mathematics) education involves the integration of concepts and methods from multiple STEM
disciplines to address real-world problems, foster a deeper understanding of complex
phenomena, and enhance students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This approach
recognizes that many real-world challenges don't fit neatly into single disciplinary boundaries,
and it encourages students to apply knowledge and techniques from various STEM fields to
solve complex problems. STEM education is an integrated discipline that offers students one of
the best opportunities to make sense of the world holistically, rather than in bits and pieces
(Lantz, 2009).In this short paper, the writer is going to analyze the importance of
Interdisciplinary teaching and learning in STEM education to result in a deeper understanding.
Benefits of Interdisciplinary Teaching and Learning
Interdisciplinary teaching and learning help lead to a more profound understanding of
concepts and issues for three reasons. The first reason is the Integration of Knowledge.
Interdisciplinary learning enables students to connect ideas, concepts, and methodologies from
different disciplines (Klein & Newell, 1997). This integration allows students to see the
connections between subjects and appreciate the relevance of each field. But beyond that, it helps
them develop a more comprehensive understanding of a particular topic. For instance,
understanding environmental issues involves knowledge from biology, chemistry, sociology, and
economics.
The second reason is Complex Problem Solving. Many of the world's problems are
complex and multifaceted. Interdisciplinary approaches prepare students to tackle these issues by
providing a broader skill set (Klein & Newell, 1997). They learn to consider various angles and
approaches, which contributes to a more profound grasp of the challenges they are addressing.
This approach helps students see the practical applications of STEM concepts and the relevance
of what they are learning which better prepares them for the challenges they will face in an ever-
evolving world.
The third reason is the development of Metacognition. Interdisciplinary learning
encourages students to reflect on their learning processes (Klein & Newell, 1997). This learning
approach encourages adaptability and flexibility, as students must be open to new ideas and be
willing to learn and apply concepts from different disciplines as they encounter various
challenges. They become more aware of their cognitive strategies and can adapt them to suit
different contexts. This metacognition promotes a deeper understanding of not only the subject
matter but also their learning.
The fourth reason is holistic understanding. Interdisciplinary teaching and learning
promote a holistic approach to education and nurture well-rounded, innovative thinkers capable
of addressing the increasingly complex and multifaceted problems in science and technology.
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Because it models the significance of collaboration and teamwork across disciplines and
advances understanding of disciplinary concepts and contexts (Maine.gov, n.d.)
Challenges of Interdisciplinary Teaching and Learning
Despite this point, many people argue interdisciplinary teaching and learning often lack a
deep knowledge of each discipline. This brings the question of which approach is better for a
deeper understanding of the topic, is it specialization of one discipline or integration of
multidiscipline? The depth of knowledge is indeed crucial for those who intend to pursue careers
or research in specialized fields. Specialization is important to master one discipline, but it takes
the integration of ideas to understand the relationship among the disciplines and easily tackle
real-world problems
(
Fostering interdisciplinary teaching and learning in the MYP,
2014)
.
Therefore, STEM is an efficient way to address global challenges by reducing overlap in content
and potentially saving time and resources. Some people talk about potential resistance from
educators or students who are more comfortable with traditional subject-based learning. To
tackle this challenge, the writer recommends that schools should give training opportunities for
the teachers and provide suitable materials to integrate the concepts.
Conclusion
Interdisciplinary teaching and learning can lead to deeper understanding in STEM
education because of four reasons; Integration of Knowledge, complex Problem Solving,
development of Metacognition, and holistic understanding. There can indeed be challenges to
interdisciplinary teaching and learning like shallow understanding of each discipline and the
resistance of teachers who were more comfortable with the traditional subject-based learning. In
general, the researcher argues in favor of the importance of interdisciplinary teaching to deepen
understanding. Therefore a balanced approach is required to offer both integrated STEM
experiences and specialized STEM education opportunities to accommodate the diverse needs
and interests of students while preparing them for the challenges of an ever-evolving world. As
an educator, it is important to develop a curriculum and prepare a specific area for students to
explore the concept of STEM Education from kindergarten (Miracle, 2018).
References
Fostering interdisciplinary teaching and learning in the MYP.
(2014, August 5). ib Middle Years
Programme.
http://www.sas-
teach.com/resources/MYP/Interdisciplinaryteachingandlearning.pdf
Hubert, C. (2021)
Interdisciplinary Learning and the Effects on Students Interdisciplinary
Learning and the Effects on Students
https://nwcommons.nwciowa.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?
article=1288&context=education_masters
Klein and Newell (1997) The Benefits of Interdisciplinary Studies
https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED430437.pdf
Lantz, H. B. (2009). Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.
What form? What
function?
https://dornsife.usc.edu/assets/sites/1/docs/jep/STEMEducationArticle.pdf
Maine.gov (n.d.)
Why is Interdisciplinary Instruction Important?
https://www.maine.gov/doe/index.php/learning/II/overview/why
Miracle (2018, January 28) Benefits of Incorporating STEM Education Into Schools
Benefits of Incorporating STEM Education Into Schools (miracle-recreation.com)
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