Interdisciplinary teaching and learning at the K-12 level in the humanities, arts, and social sciences: A scoping review

 

Learning at the K-12 Level in the Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences: A Scoping Review

Introduction

Interdisciplinary teaching has gained traction in K-12 education as a way to create deeper learning experiences for students. The integration of the humanities, arts, and social sciences (HASS) fosters critical thinking, creativity, and a holistic understanding of complex issues. This scoping review examines key themes, benefits, challenges, and best practices in interdisciplinary education at the K-12 level.

Defining Interdisciplinary Teaching in HASS

Interdisciplinary teaching involves blending knowledge and methods from multiple disciplines to create a more cohesive and integrated learning experience. In K-12 education, interdisciplinary approaches in the humanities, arts, and social sciences often include project-based learning, thematic instruction, and collaborative teaching models.

Benefits of Interdisciplinary Learning

  1. Enhanced Critical Thinking – Students learn to analyze issues from multiple perspectives, improving their problem-solving skills.

  2. Increased Engagement – Learning becomes more relevant and meaningful when students see connections between different subjects.

  3. Creativity and Innovation – The integration of arts and humanities fosters creative expression and innovative thinking.

  4. Cultural Awareness – Exposure to diverse perspectives promotes empathy and a deeper understanding of global issues.

  5. Improved Retention – Connecting ideas across disciplines helps reinforce learning and long-term knowledge retention.

Challenges in Implementing Interdisciplinary Teaching

Despite its benefits, interdisciplinary teaching faces several challenges:

  • Curriculum Constraints – Standardized testing and rigid curriculum structures can make interdisciplinary approaches difficult to implement.

  • Teacher Training – Many educators are trained in single-subject disciplines and may require additional professional development to effectively integrate multiple fields.

  • Time and Resource Limitations – Designing interdisciplinary units requires collaboration, planning, and resources that may not always be available.

  • Assessment Difficulties – Measuring student progress in an interdisciplinary framework requires alternative assessment methods that are not always well-established.

Best Practices for Effective Interdisciplinary Teaching

  1. Collaborative Planning – Teachers from different disciplines should work together to design integrated lesson plans that align with learning objectives.

  2. Project-Based Learning – Encouraging students to engage in hands-on projects that combine elements of HASS disciplines fosters deeper understanding.

  3. Thematic Units – Organizing curriculum around central themes, such as social justice, environmental sustainability, or cultural heritage, helps create meaningful connections across subjects.

  4. Technology Integration – Digital tools, virtual simulations, and multimedia resources can enhance interdisciplinary learning experiences.

  5. Flexible Assessment Methods – Using portfolios, presentations, and student reflections allows for a more comprehensive evaluation of interdisciplinary learning outcomes.

Conclusion

Interdisciplinary teaching in the humanities, arts, and social sciences at the K-12 level has the potential to transform education by making learning more engaging, meaningful, and applicable to real-world issues. While challenges exist, adopting best practices and fostering collaboration among educators can help overcome barriers and enhance the effectiveness of interdisciplinary education. Schools and policymakers should continue to support and invest in innovative approaches that prepare students for the complexities of the modern world.

29th Edition of International Research Awards on Science, Health and Engineering | 26-27 February 2025 | London, United Kingdom


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