An integrated curriculum is an approach to teaching and learning that connects different areas of study by cutting across subject-matter lines and emphasizing unifying concepts. An integrated curriculum can be multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, or transdisciplinary, depending on the level of integration and the focus of the learning (Barton, 2021).
Humanities and social sciences are important and rational for children in an integrated curriculum because:
They help them develop empathy and respect for others by exposing them to diverse perspectives, values, and experiences across different disciplines and contexts.
They enhance their communication and literacy skills by teaching them how to read, write, speak, and listen effectively in various formats and media, such as texts, images, videos, podcasts, etc.
They foster their critical thinking and inquiry skills by encouraging them to ask questions, evaluate evidence, and form arguments based on multiple sources and viewpoints.
They inspire them to pursue their interests and passions by providing them with a wide range of topics and disciplines to explore and learn, such as literature, history, geography, psychology, sociology, and more.
They prepare them for the future by enabling them to understand and appreciate the complexity and diversity of the human condition and the global society.
Books, magazines, posters, photographs, artworks, etc. that can inspire children to learn about different topics, concepts, or practices.
Objects, tools, or kits that can be used to create, test, or demonstrate products, systems, or processes that integrate different subjects, such as LEGO bricks, K’NEX rods and connectors, or littleBits electronic modules. These materials can be used to build and program various models, such as robots, vehicles, or sensors, that involve science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Devices, software, or online platforms that can be used to design, simulate, or control products, systems, or processes that integrate different subjects, such as tablets, computers, cameras, sensors, apps, websites, etc. These technologies can be used to create and share products, such as videos, podcasts, or presentations, that involve language, arts, social studies, and humanities.
0-2 years: Provide children with sensory materials, such as blocks, balls, or tubes, that they can manipulate and observe. Encourage them to notice the different shapes, sizes, colors, and textures of the materials. Ask them questions about how they can stack, roll, or connect the materials. This can help them develop their fine motor skills, spatial awareness, and mathematical concepts.
2-3 years: Provide children with simple challenges, such as sorting, counting, or matching, that they can solve using different materials. Encourage them to try different ideas, test their solutions, and compare the results. Ask them questions about what they did and why they think it works. This can help them develop their logical thinking, problem-solving, and numeracy skills.
3-5 years: Provide children with projects, such as making a pattern, a shape, or a number, that they can design and create using different materials and tools. Encourage them to use their imagination, creativity, and problem-solving skills to complete the projects. Ask them questions about what they learned and how they can improve their work. This can help them develop their artistic expression, geometric understanding, and literacy skills.
6-8 years: Provide children with activities, such as measuring, estimating, or graphing, that they can plan and execute using different technologies. Encourage them to use the features and functions of the technologies to enhance their products, systems, or processes. Ask them questions about what they want to achieve and how they can do it effectively. This can help them develop their scientific inquiry, data analysis, and communication skills.
Inquiry-based learning: This is the approach of engaging students in asking questions, conducting investigations, collecting and analyzing data, drawing conclusions, and communicating their findings. Inquiry-based learning can help students develop skills, knowledge, and attitudes across different subjects.
Project-based learning: This is the approach of involving students in authentic and meaningful projects that require them to apply their understanding and skills across different subjects to solve real-world problems or challenges. Project-based learning can help students develop creative thinking, collaboration, and communication skills.
Design thinking: This is the process of solving problems or creating products by using a balance of empathy, creativity, and rationality. Design thinking can help students develop human-centered, innovative, and feasible solutions across different subjects.
Challenge-based learning: This is the approach of challenging students to identify and address a significant problem or issue that affects their lives or communities. Challenge-based learning can help students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and civic engagement skills across different subjects.
Flipped classroom: This is the approach of reversing the traditional order of instruction by delivering the content online before the class and using the class time for active learning activities. Flipped classroom can help students prepare for the class, engage in the class, and apply their learning across different subjects.