Integrative Learning
Integrative learning is a learning theory describing a movement toward integrated lessons helping students make connections across curricula. As exemplified in the concept map, integrated learning can occur through the application of a variety of teaching strategies including learning communities. Curriculum can be both integrated and integrative. An integrative curriculum offers students the opportunity to make connections between what they are learning within a course while an integrated curriculum pulls together all the various parts of learning, i.e. the courses, into a “unified view of knowledge” as described by educator Paul Dressel in “The Meaning and Significance of Integration” (as cited in Smith, B.L., McGregor, J., Matthews, R.S. & Gabelnick, F., Learning Communities: Reforming Undergraduate Education, 2004, p. 112).

To learn more about integrative learning, check out this article, Leading Initiatives for Integrative Learning by Mary Taylor Huber, Pat Hutchings, Richard Gale, Ross Miller, and Molly Breen. If you would like to find out how to design an integrative component into your course, please contact Beth Hill at CTE, 977-3485 or Bhill7@slu.edu.

Last updated 07.28.08