The Knowledge Explosion :: Essays Papers

The Knowledge Explosion The current trends in education are moving educators toward adoption of an integrated curriculum. What is now referred to as the integrated curriculum was once known as interdisciplinary studies. Integration focuses on the organization of central themes or concepts combining several subjects. These themes, or concepts, allow students to interconnect information between subject areas. Giving students this skill will enable them to combine information in large quantities, assess the quality and validity of information, and help them to determine the importance of any given context. Replacing the isolated subject areas with an integrated curriculum develops in the student an interrelated view of learning. There are two common models for curriculum integration, the Daisy Model and the Rose Model. Independent subjects are organized around a central theme in the Daisy Model. The subjects refer back to the theme but are taught separately. The theme is represented by the center of the daisy surrounded by the unique and separate petals which represent subjects. On the other hand, the petals of the rose are intertwined symbolizing the fully integrated subjects of the Rose Model. The focus of the Rose Model is on a particular theme rather than individual subjects. The subjects are united under one theme and are taught simultaneously through the exploration of that theme.(Martin, D. J., 2000). Curriculum integration has become a way to redirect the aims and purposes of schooling because of its positive benefits for students. James Beane has found evidence that shows that "we have known for many years that movement in this direction benefits both young people and their teachers"(1992). One positive aspect of this curriculum is that students see the relevance of the instruction because of the connections made among subject areas(McDonald, J., 1994). This makes the instruction less abstract and more applicable to real life(Berlin, D. F., 1994). Students then tend to search for meanings and answers to their questions instead of simply memorizing facts to pass exams(Beane, J, 1992). Ms. M, a fifth grade teacher in Maryland, has observed this element of integration in the actions of her students. They seem more motivated by the subject matter when they can relate it to their personal experiences and other parts of their education. In addition, she noticed that the students had a better sense of accomplishment when they could draw from previous instruction and tie together information from each subject. Students who feel successful will acquire the skills necessary for cooperation, socialization, communication and self-motivation.