Identify two of the potential connections from your map as your near future goal(s). Then critically discuss the benefits and challenges of working in a more interdisciplinary environment. I have looked at the interdisciplinary approach by zooming into one topic/theme. Our term two's inquiry was playground design and during teacher only day, staff brainstormed ways we could link our subjects around this theme. The above image is what we came up with. There were many benefits to the approach such as, drawing on each others strengths and making connections between subjects but we also ran into challenges such as finding material to fit the topic or the teaching of research skills. Overall, the students enjoyed the topic and were able to see the "Bigger Picture".
Collaboration with others through increased and continued communication with whanau and fellow teachers. Benefits: By having regular communication with whanau, the teacher can draw upon the strengths of others. It opens up an avenue for the students to be able to interview people from their communities. Teachers who have a strength/passion for a certain subject should be drawn upon for lesson activities or ideas. Challenges: Finding the time to do this. Initially this could be set up during parent-teacher conferences and during teacher only days at the beginning of the year. You could use a class blog to communicate with whanau and invite them to step in where they can. Make connections between social media and learning. Benefits: By using social media you keep up to date with relevant topics and give students an authentic purpose to their learning. Students are also able to make connections between what they are learning in class and the "real-world". Challenges: Some social media sites may be blocked. Students may still view social media as entertainment and not as a learning tool. References Jones, C.(2009). Interdisciplinary approach - Advantages, disadvantages, and the future benefits of interdisciplinary studies. ESSAI, 7(26), 76-81. Retrieved from http://dc.cod.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1121&context=essai
1 Comment
Erika Locke
6/30/2016 05:49:00 am
Excellent post with succinct comments for benefits and challenges. One of the greatest challenges in many schools is that social sites such as Facebook are block. In my youth, my parents wanted us to learn how to drink alcohol safely in their presence rather than sneak around and drink ourselves blotto as many of our peers did. I would rather have students learn appropriate use of social media with teachers and parents than have subterranean use in inappropriate ways. Both teachers, parents and students need to see the learning value in social media sites as opposed to just entertainment value. What did you use to create your interdisciplinary web? I really like it!
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AuthorCurrently enrolled in the Mindlab Postgraduate Course and am looking at ways to document what I learn. Archives
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