Transdisciplinary Learning Approach: A Hands-On Workshop

Definition - Why transdisciplinary learning? - Connections -Unit Plan Tools

DEFINITION:  Transdisciplinary learning is the exploration of a relevant issue or problem that integrates the perspectives of multiple disciplines in order to connect new knowledge and deeper understanding to real life experiences.

The following outline provides resources to help educators develop comprehensive units reflecting a transdisciplinary approach to learning.

• Why transdisciplinary learning?

  • Explore resources on transdisciplinary learning to reach a shared understanding of its definition, vision, scope and purpose in educational reform.
    • Transdisciplinary Learning Online Resources
    • Articles:  Curriculum is a Construct by Darron Davies, Selected pages from the book:  Beyond the Boundaries by Douglas Kaufman, David M. Moss and Terry A. Osborn and online article: Interdisciplinary Studies: A Matter of Definition by Richard Meeth.
  • Compare and contrast elements of multi- , inter- and transdisciplinary units.
    • Visual diagram adapted from Beyond the Boundaries (Kaufman, Moss, Osborn).

• How does transdisciplinary learning connect to Understanding by Design, the Vision of the Graduate and curriculum realignments ?
  

  • Explore possible unifying issues/inquiry topics for transdisciplinary learning.
    • Intel Teach to the Future - Index of Units (modeled on project-based learning).
    • TeachGlobalEd.Net - Teaching Global Issues
    • iEarn Projects - Collaboration Centre for Global Projects on current issues.
    • ePals Projects - Classroom exchange projects based on global issues.
  • How does the  Vision of a Graduate compare to our shared understanding of transdisciplinary learning? 
    • The Greenwich Public Schools Vision of the Graduate
  • How does Understanding by Design connect with the vision of transdisciplinary learning?
    • Backward Design 101 -This article reviews the differences between traditional curriculum and Backwards Design.  
    • Identifying Enduring Understandings - http://pdonline.ascd.org/pd_online/ubd_backward/mctighe99chapter4.html
  • How do changes in curricular areas connect to the idea of transdisicplinary learning?

• Unit Plan Criteria and Tools

  • Teacher Resources - includes tools to help develop essential questions, model lessons, graphic organizers, and assessment tools.
  • Transdisciplinary Unit Organizer/Diagram
  • Transdisciplinary Unit Checklist
  • Transdisciplinary Unit Plan Template (rev. 7-14-09)
    
  • Lesson Plan Template
  • Unit Summaries
  • Project-Based Learning Checklist
    

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    Developed for use with exploration of Transdisciplinary Learning Approach for educators.  Resources compiled by Fran Kompar.  Image courtesy of http://www.gent.org.  Copyright, July 2009.  Last updated 7/12/2009.