INTERDISCIPLINARY PROJECTS
The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), contains 650 schools, which cover over 700 square miles and serve a student population of close to three quarters of a million. There are over ninety languages spoken by the students in the LAUSD. A major question faced generically by educators, and specifically by classroom practitioners, is: "How can students within culturally complex districts such as Los Angeles best be supported in their cognitive and effective development?" An interdisciplinary project model is one such solution (but not the only one). Four key concepts should serve as a projects foundation and should be addressed before introducing the project itself: (1) multicultural education, (2) world views levels of analysis, (3) project-based learning, and (4) interdisciplinary connections. This section will mainly summarize the components of an Interdisciplinary Project Based Learning model. Look for full article below including all four key concepts. Project-based Learning and Interdisciplinary Connection A project provides a forum for students to demonstrate mastery, rather than rote memorization and testing. Effective projects are built on inquiry, the asking of important questions. Inquiry transforms students from passive receivers of information into active learners, thinkers and problem-solvers. Project learning has been defined as "securing learning.” It is the acquisition of knowledge, habits, skills, ideals, etc. The goal of a project is to learn more about the topic rather than to see right answers to questions posed by the teacher. Specific elements should be present in the design of an interdisciplinary project. These include a project rationale, essential questions driving the project, specific criteria to show mastery, specific deadlines for project components, a means of exhibition and expression, assessment rubric/checklists, a means of self-assessment and documentation, and universality (real-world connections). Through the use of backwards planning, "exhibitions drive the curriculum.” Exhibitions afford students an opportunity to demonstrate and celebrate their knowledge and talents. Well-crafted projects allow students to make a variety of interdisciplinary connects, and enable them to make those connections in ways appropriate for them. |
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