Removing the Educational Silos: Models of Interdisciplinary and Multidisciplinary Education

A self-guided instructional journey for educators in multi- and interdisciplinary learning.

This book is designed as a source of inspiration, replication, and adaptation. Each chapter, in varying modalities, addresses interdisciplinary course development and implementation in institutions of higher education. The essays focus on common issues like navigating administrative systems and solving the challenges encountered when crossing departments or colleges, whether regarding course listings or the intricacies of course loads on each professor. Chapters also provide detailed information on the nuts and bolts of the specific course or courses taught, including syllabi, lesson examples, and both formal and informal assessments implemented. 

Contributors candidly offer discussions of the failures and successes of their interdisciplinary collaborations, including course design, lesson planning, or complications brought in by unforeseen pandemics. Most chapters end with a summary of lessons learned, where experiences from the field provide opportunities for growth and continued exploration. An excellent resource for educators, this volume offers readers guidance and encouragement to implement the approaches described and inspiration to forge their own paths in the world of multi- and interdisciplinary teaching and research.

Wiline Pangle is a faculty member in the Department of Biology at Central Michigan University. 

Keeley Stanley-Bohn is professor of theater at Central Michigan University. 

Ann Dasen is a costume designer and makeup artist. She is associate professor in the Department of Theater and Dance and resident costume designer of the mainstage theater and dance season at Central Michigan University. 

Heather Trommer-Beardslee is coordinator of Dance Studies and artistic director of the University Theatre Dance Company at Central Michigan University.