Interdisciplinary learning has proven to have a positive impact on teaching styles, and on relationships with both colleagues and students. Let's discuss a few of these potential benefits. Introducing an interdisciplinary element into a curriculum encourages all involved to develop meaningful links among the fields in ways that intrigue and motivate both teacher and students. As a design element, it can push you and your students toward more powerful thinking and the ability to make comparisons that bridge disciplines, span eras, and encourage the application of knowledge. Engaging in this kind of thinking can also have a positive effect on you, the teacher and designer.
Many educators feel energized when using a fresh approach to old content.
I was teaching facts for the sake of knowing facts. I now know I must go back and redevelop my own way of thinking and revise my lessons. In this video clip, teacher Vicky Cook reflects on how working with interdisciplinary curriculum helped her to develop a better understanding of both the school as a whole and her place within it. Using an interdisciplinary unit in your teaching can affect your interaction with colleagues as well. When teams of educators must work together to develop effective units, they often feel a sense of collegiality and enthusiasm that would not be achieved if they were working in isolation.