Reaction Paper #2

Student’s Name

Institution

Summary

This reaction paper is with regard to the article, “Ten Ways to Integrate Curriculum” by Robin Fogarty. The article discusses three integration methods within single disciplines, namely the nested model, the connected model, and the fragmented model. It then proceeds to discuss integration modes across several disciplines, namely the integrated model, the threaded model, the webbed model, the shared model, and the sequenced model. The last two modes are the learner based immersed model and networked model.

The fragmented model is described as the traditional model that involves the organization of the curriculum across distinct and separate subjects. The connected model is defined as one in which interconnections, subtleties, and details within each subject are provided. The nested model is described as a three-dimensional model whereby the multiple dimensions of a topic are discussed during each lesson. The sequenced model is defined as a model which views topic and units as separate entities which are connected by a common framework. The shared model combines two different disciplines into a single area of focus. The webbed model integrates several concepts from multiple disciplines. The threaded model combines study skills, social skills, and thinking skills and applies then across all disciplines. The integrated model rearranges interdisciplinary concepts around overlapping ideas and topics. The immersed model is based on the expertise and interest of learners by personalizing interdisciplinary content. The networked model provides various channels for an explanation and exploration of interdisciplinary content.

Evaluation of the Information

I don’t agree with the perspective offered in the article that the fragmented model is an integrated model. This is because subjects such as Social studies, language arts, science, and math are viewed as being pure, separate, and independent. Different teachers teach them at different locations. The fact that students get the impression that each subject is different from other subjects negates the classification of the fragmented model as an integration model. The connection model is also not a fully integrated model because it is limited to the interconnections within one subject area. For instance, in the earth science subject, the teacher relates the astronomy unit to the geology unit by explaining their evolutionary relationship. To me, that is not integration because at the end of the day, the knowledge of the students will be limited to the earth science unit. If the teacher went ahead and explained the mathematical foundation of astronomy, that can qualify to be considered as integration. The nested model is an excellent of integration within the same subject or discipline. This is because it involves combining theoretical facts with the application of logical thinking skills. The combination is likely to boost the understanding capacity of a student significantly.

In my perspective, the sequencing model does not manage to achieve the purpose of integration. This is because it limits itself to similar units or topics within the same subject. The model does not achieve anything special because every curriculum has to be arranged chronologically and sequentially so as to make sense to students. The shared model is a brilliant integration model because it involves shared teaching and planning of two different disciplines. In such a scenario, students are able to grasp the similarities and difference and expand the scope of their knowledge. I feel that the webbed model is a highly commendable integration model because a cross departmental team is formed and teaches on a common theme that appears in different subjects. For instance, the theme of invention is present in industrial arts, language arts, social studies, math, and science. The threaded model is a double-edged sword in that the combination of different skills to understand interdisciplinary concepts may either improve the understanding capacity of the student or confuse the student. The immersed model is instrumental in advancing a learner’s interest and passion while the networking model is bound to play a significant role in helping a learner translate his or her theoretical skills into useful practical techniques. In conclusion, I am of the view that the webbed model is the best integration model as no concept, topic, or subject is left behind. The formation of cross-disciplinary teams in the webbed model guarantees that learners get access to diverse teaching methods and a wide scope of knowledge.