Your Ultimate Guide to Interdisciplinary Approach in Teaching

In today’s world, we need people who can come up with innovative and creative solutions. The challenges and needs we face as a society require more than just traditional, one-dimensional thinking.

At Extramarks, we understand the need to rethink education and how we learn. That’s why we developed Smart Class Plus—to prepare the leaders of tomorrow. We believe that modern times call for new methods, which is why our approach focuses on learning by doing, living, and designing, with an emphasis on interdisciplinary learning at the heart of it all.

What is an Interdisciplinary Approach in Education?

Interdisciplinary teaching is an approach where students explore a single topic or issue from multiple perspectives.

For instance, if students are studying tourism in the United States using an interdisciplinary method, they might examine the revenue from tourism in an economics class, explore popular tourist destinations in geography, review historical tourism trends in history, and learn about advertising strategies for tourism agencies in marketing. Interdisciplinary teaching has been proven to improve concentration and make students more excited about their education.

Importance of Interdisciplinary Approach

As teachers, we are always seeking the best ways to engage our students and help them understand complex concepts. One helpful method is the interdisciplinary approach, which integrates multiple subjects into a cohesive learning experience. Here’s why this approach can be particularly beneficial for students:

1. Real-World Relevance: Life isn’t divided into separate subjects. An interdisciplinary approach helps students see the connections between different fields, making learning more relevant to real-world situations.
2. Critical Thinking: By drawing on multiple disciplines, students learn to approach problems from various perspectives. This enhances their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
3. Engagement: Students often find learning more engaging when they see how different subjects overlap. This can spark curiosity and a deeper interest in learning.

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4. Collaboration Skills: Interdisciplinary projects often require teamwork. Working together on these projects helps students develop collaboration skills, which further help them when they step into the real world.

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5. Adaptability: The ability to integrate knowledge from different fields prepares students to adapt to new situations and challenges, a crucial skill in today’s ever-changing world.

How to Teach Using an Interdisciplinary Learning Model?

As mentioned earlier, an interdisciplinary learning model brings together different subjects and skills to help students see connections and solve real-world problems. Here’s how to teach using this approach:

1. Curriculum Integration

   Start by combining content from different subjects. For instance, you could integrate history with literature by having students explore historical contexts through novels set in those times. This approach helps students see how different fields of study are interconnected and enhances their understanding of the material.

2. Team Teaching

   Collaborate with teachers from other disciplines to create a more cohesive learning experience. By working together, you can design lessons that incorporate multiple subjects and provide a richer learning environment.

   For example, a science teacher and a math teacher could team up to show how mathematical concepts apply to scientific experiments.

3. Project-Based Learning

   Project-based learning engages students in solving real-world problems or completing projects that require applying knowledge from various subjects.

   For example, students might work on a project to design a sustainable garden, which could involve science (understanding plant growth), math (measuring and calculating space), and art (designing the layout). This hands-on approach encourages students to use their skills in practical ways and encourages deeper learning.

4. Problem-Based Learning

   In problem-based learning, students tackle complex problems that do not have straightforward solutions. This method promotes critical thinking and encourages students to draw on knowledge from various disciplines.

   For instance, you can ask students to investigate a local environmental issue, requiring them to use science to understand the problem, math to analyse data, and social studies to consider the community’s impact. This approach helps students develop problem-solving skills and learn how to integrate information from different areas.

5. Cross-Curricular Assessments

   Cross-curricular assessments evaluate students’ understanding across different subjects. Instead of testing students on each subject separately, you can use assessments that require them to apply knowledge from multiple areas.

   For example, a project that involves writing a report, creating a presentation, and analysing data can assess students’ skills in language arts, research, and critical thinking simultaneously. This type of assessment gives a much better picture of students’ abilities and how they use their learning in different contexts.

6. Guest Speakers and Experts

   Invite guest speakers or experts to your classroom to provide additional perspectives and insights. These visitors can bring real-world experience and expertise into your lessons, making the connections between subjects more tangible and relevant. They can also inspire students and offer valuable career insights.

7. Provide Feedback

   As a teacher, you can offer regular feedback on how students are integrating and applying knowledge from different subjects. Highlight their strengths and suggest areas for improvement. Constructive feedback helps students refine their skills and better understand how their learning connects across disciplines.

Also Read: A Teacher’s Guide to Multidisciplinary Approach in Education

Benefits of an Interdisciplinary Approach in Teaching

The interdisciplinary approach to teaching comes with ample benefits for everyone — teachers, students, and the school. These include:

1. Benefits of an Interdisciplinary Approach for Teachers

Teachers benefit by adopting the interdisciplinary approach to teaching. Here’s how:

• Encourages Creative Teaching Methods: Teachers can integrate multiple subjects, making lessons more engaging.
• Enhances Professional Growth: Promotes collaboration with other subject teachers, fostering continuous learning.
• Simplifies Real-World Application: Helps teachers connect theories with practical applications, making learning more relevant.
• Reduces Siloed Learning: Encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration, making lesson planning more dynamic.
• Increases Student Engagement: Students respond better to interconnected topics, making classes more interactive.

2. Benefits of an Interdisciplinary Approach for Students

For students, below are the benefits of an interdisciplinary approach:

• Develops Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills: Helps students analyse concepts from multiple perspectives.
• Boosts Retention and Understanding: Learning concepts in a contextual manner improves long-term memory.
• Encourages Collaboration and Teamwork: Students work on interdisciplinary projects, improving communication skills.
• Bridges Gaps Between Subjects: Helps students see connections between STEM, humanities, and arts, leading to holistic education.
• Prepares for Real-World Challenges: Encourages adaptability, making students ready for higher education and careers.

3. Benefits of an Interdisciplinary Approach for Schools

Not just teachers and students, but even schools benefit from an interdisciplinary approach. These advantages include:

• Improves Overall Academic Performance: Schools that adopt interdisciplinary teaching see higher student engagement and performance.
• Aligns with NEP 2020 and 21st-Century Learning: Encourages multidisciplinary learning, as recommended by modern education policies.
• Enhances Teacher Collaboration: It builds a culture of teamwork, leading to better curriculum development.
• Promotes Innovation in Curriculum Design: Schools can offer integrated learning programs that stand out in the education sector.

Challenges Faced in Interdisciplinary Teaching

While interdisciplinary teaching can offer students a richer learning experience, it comes with its own set of challenges:

1. Logistical Challenges

Coordinating schedules and organising joint classes can be difficult when different departments are involved. Finding common times for faculty to meet and collaborate, as well as aligning curricula, can be time-consuming and complex.

How to tackle this challenge: Collaborative Scheduling

• Plan Ahead: Establish a shared calendar among faculty from different departments to identify common free periods for joint classes.
• Flexible Timelines: Use a flexible approach to scheduling that allows for adjustments based on faculty availability and student needs.
• Dedicated Planning Time: Allocate specific times for faculty to meet and collaborate on curriculum design, ensuring all voices are heard and integrated.
• Shared Platforms: Use online platforms (e.g., shared drives, project management tools) to facilitate communication, document decisions, and share resources.

2. Faculty Collaboration

For interdisciplinary teaching to work well, faculty from different disciplines need to work together closely. This can be challenging if there are differences in teaching styles or if communication isn’t smooth. It takes effort and willingness from everyone involved.

How to tackle this challenge: Building Communication and Trust

• Regular Meetings: Schedule regular interdisciplinary meetings to discuss teaching styles, expectations, and objectives, fostering open communication.
• Team Teaching: Implement team teaching where instructors co-teach classes, allowing them to model collaboration for students and share diverse perspectives.
• Professional Development: Provide training on collaborative teaching methods and conflict resolution to help faculty navigate differences in teaching styles.

3. Assessment Difficulties

Measuring students’ progress in an interdisciplinary setting can be hard. Standard tests and assignments might not capture what students are learning across different subjects. Creating fair assessments that cover multiple disciplines can be complicated.

How to tackle this challenge: Innovative Assessment Methods

• Develop Rubrics: Create interdisciplinary assessment rubrics that evaluate student understanding across multiple disciplines rather than relying solely on traditional tests.
• Project-Based Assessments: Use project-based learning where students demonstrate their understanding through collaborative projects that integrate various subject areas.
• Reflective Practices: Encourage students to reflect on their learning process, which can provide insights into their interdisciplinary understanding beyond standard assessments.

4. Resistance to Change

Some educators and institutions may be resistant to changing established practices. There might be concerns about how interdisciplinary approaches fit within traditional academic structures or skepticism about their effectiveness.

How to tackle this challenge: Cultivating a Supportive Environment

• Awareness Campaigns: Conduct workshops or seminars that highlight the benefits of interdisciplinary teaching, showcasing successful case studies and research findings.
• Pilot Programs: Start with small pilot programs that allow educators to experiment with interdisciplinary approaches without overhauling existing curricula.
• Feedback Mechanisms: Establish channels for educators to share their experiences and concerns about interdisciplinary teaching, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

5. Resource Allocation

Interdisciplinary teaching often needs extra resources, like time for planning and materials that support various subjects. Getting these resources can be challenging, especially if budgets are tight.

How to tackle this challenge: Strategic Resource Management

• Budget Planning: Advocate for dedicated budgets for interdisciplinary programs that cover materials, technology, and planning time.
• Shared Resources: Encourage departments to share resources (e.g., labs, technology) to minimise costs while maximising access to interdisciplinary projects.
• Grants and Funding Opportunities: Seek external funding or grants specifically aimed at supporting innovative educational practices, including interdisciplinary teaching initiatives.

Closing Thoughts

Adopting an interdisciplinary approach in education undoubtedly takes effort, teamwork, and a willingness to try new teaching methods. While there are challenges, the benefits for students in terms of learning to think critically, solve problems, and prepare for the real world are significant. It’s a journey that requires ongoing learning and improvement, but the results for both students and teachers are incredibly rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is interdisciplinary teaching and learning in schools?

Interdisciplinary teaching and learning involve students integrating knowledge from various disciplines to develop innovative approaches to understanding issues and finding solutions.

2. What is an example of an interdisciplinary learning approach?

Let’s take the following example to understand the interdisciplinary approach to learning:

Assume students are working on a project about climate change. To make the project a success, they will need to use science to explore the environmental effects, math to analyse data on temperature changes, and art to create a visual presentation that raises awareness about the issue. This is possible because of the interdisciplinary approach towards education.

Last Updated on April 4, 2025