The Effects of Integrated Curricula on Young Adolescent Problem-Solving

Abstract

AbstractThis study examines the effects of a four-week interdisciplinary unit on students' problem-solving ability. A critical review of both the popular and research literature led to the development and conduct of this experimental study which, in turn, raises new questions regarding integrated approaches to teaching and learning.Interdisciplinary teaching has become an integral component of the middle level philosophy since the mid-1960s and is considered by many to be the single most distinguishing feature separating middle schools from more traditional junior high schools. While a good deal of useful information regarding the design of integrated curricula and the implementation of interdisciplinary units (as well as teacher teaming experiences) pervade the literature, less empirical evidence regarding student achievement or cognitive processes is found.While the majority of studies have concentrated on teachers' and students' affect and on the learning environment, some data have led researchers to ...