THE INTERDISCIPLINARY APPROACH – A KEY TO THE EDUCATION OF THE FUTURE
Keywords:
interdisciplinary approach, teaching methods, 21st-century skills, educational innovationAbstract
The present study explores the role of the interdisciplinary approach as a key factor in the modernization of contemporary education. In the context of rapid technological development and increasing societal complexity, traditional subject-based teaching models are becoming insufficient to meet the demands of the 21st century. The research adopts a mixed-methods design, combining quantitative data from a survey conducted among 80 participants (teachers and university students) with qualitative insights obtained through semi-structured interviews. The findings reveal a high level of positive attitudes toward interdisciplinary learning (M = 4.21), alongside a moderately high level of its practical implementation (M = 3.78). A statistically significant difference was identified between teachers and students in terms of application, while attitudes remained consistently positive across both groups. Furthermore, a moderate positive correlation (r = 0.62) was found between knowledge and application of the interdisciplinary approach and its perceived effectiveness. The results highlight the existence of a gap between theoretical recognition and practical implementation, influenced by factors such as lack of time, insufficient training, and limited resources. The study emphasizes the need for targeted teacher training, institutional support, and the integration of interdisciplinary practices into educational curricula. In conclusion, the interdisciplinary approach represents a fundamental mechanism for enhancing educational quality and preparing learners for real-world challenges, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and collaborative skills.
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