I had the pleasure of writing the foreword for the recently published booklet, Curriculum Integration by Ross J Todd, which is one of the booklets in the Learning in the Changing World series.  This is a joint publication by the Australian School Library Association (ASLA) and the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA).

My foreword – “In an information-rich, technology-oriented world there is a real need to focus attention on the quality of the teaching and learning experience for young people. Quality teaching is the biggest influence on improving learning outcomes for students. A constructivist and inquiry-based approach emphasises the need to engage students in real-life learning experiences that challenge and stimulate the intellectual agility and social maturity of the learner, enabling them to develop knowledge and understanding of the world in which they live. The instructional model of Guided Inquiry, outlined in this book, focuses on the importance of designing programs that connect the learning with the curriculum through an inquiry-based approach to learning that is supported by an instructional team and a well-resourced school library.” – captures the essence of the content of the booklet.

A dynamic component of the booklet is the Curriculum Integration Matrix.  As Todd states, “the Curriculum Integration Matrix presented in this document is based on the constructivist instructional framework of Guided Inquiry and underpinned by the research-based Information Search Process model, both developed by Kuhlthau.”

The Learning in a Changing World series presents the core areas for all educators and school leaders to consider for 21st century learning: the digital world, virtual worlds, curriculum integration, resourcing and the physical environment. All are essential elements to enable and empower students to be lifelong learners and active participants in our society.

This is a must buy for schools.