Knowledge as perspective: From domain perspective learning to interdisciplinary understanding

This chapter introduces the construct of domain perspective learning as a mechanism for preparing students for later interdisciplinary learning and problem solving. Domain perspective learning involves (a) recognizing that the information presented by an author is, in part, a result of their domain perspective, or the objects of focus, methods of inquiry, and evaluative standards that characterize the domain that they are a part of; and (b) conceptualizing, comparing and evaluating, and integrating multiple domain perspectives for interdisciplinary learning and problem solving. In addition to introducing domain perspective learning and identifying the processes that this involves, this chapter concludes with a description of three strategies that may be used to enhance domain perspective learning in the classroom.