Yes; "The concept of 'phenomenon-based' teaching – a move away from 'subjects”'and towards inter-disciplinary topics – will have a central place in the new NCF."
I like it! By integrating what we traditionally taught as separate subjects, kids can learn conceptually through exploration and hands-on, real-world applications. This promotes deeper learning while fostering problem-solving, critical thinking and as studies show, it engages students in learning. As the article states, it, "leaves educators freedom to find the best ways to offer good teaching and learning to all children". This is because integration allows multiple entry points so all students can participate, engage and be successful. That is critically important for Alberta given our we have the highest drop-out rate in Canada (25%).
When Pasi Sahlberg spoke last weekend about why Finland is so successful, he stated that in addition to "play" and the integration of subjects, gender equality and teacher support/training are critically important. The main theme of his talk is that Finland invests in creating the culture they believe will produce the culture they value.
What I find interesting is that the new curriculum that Alberta Education is currently piloting does have several similarities to Finland's. Interesting times ahead!
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