Phenomenon-based Learning: Embedding English in an Interdisciplinary Teaching and Learning Approach

Abstract

At a young age, children learn by incorporating various skills to in their daily activities. These skills show an organic method for children to learn skills in all areas of their development. However, when considering a school education, the arrangement for learning has mostly been organized into separate subjects. In Thailand, students in basic education levels study five-to-eight disconnected subjects per day. The disconnected nature of basic education leads to students having difficulties in transferring their knowledge to other ideas, connecting reasoning concepts, or integrating skills to solve problems. This article is purposed to point out an approach known as phenomenon-based learning that helps foster whole knowledge and highlights interdisciplinary teaching and learning. In this framework, not only do learners engage their knowledge of various subjects with different people and diverse resources, but they also provided the learning opportunity to connect disciplines and develop transferable skills into diverse contexts. This article articulates five underpinning dimensions of phenomenon-based learning. At the end, suggested activities and lessons are provided to demonstrate the possible practices that can be applied into a classroom.