ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the three integration approaches: multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, and transdisciplinary. Transdisciplinary integration, though similar to interdisciplinary integration, is driven by real-life problems to solve or by real-life challenges to meet. Comparing integration approaches, thematic and interdisciplinary integration situate learning around a theme, whereas transdisciplinary integration situates learning around issues that capture student attention and interest. One or many of the concepts could be a part of a transdisciplinary unit on heat where integration combines Sustainability transdisciplinary education model (STEM) fields with each other and with language arts, making connections for the purpose of solving a real-life problem or challenge. Through transdisciplinary STEM integration, students join community life in numerous ways. STEM transdisciplinary integration gives students opportunities to communicate with neighbors, organizations, and agencies. STEM education adopts the transdisciplinary approach, which focuses learning around real-life scenarios and driving questions by combining math, science, technology, and engineering concepts to address real-world concerns.
