IGNOU ASSIGNMENT REFERENCE MATERIAL (2017-18) B.E.S.-125 UNDERSTANDING DISCIPLINES AND SUBJECTS
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IGNOU ASSIGNMENT REFERENCE MATERIAL (2017-18) B.E.S.-125 UNDERSTANDING DISCIPLINES AND SUBJECTS
Q1. Explain the concept of a discipline. Discuss different forms of disciplines with suitable examples.
Ans. The term “discipline” originates from the Latin words discipulus, which means pupil, and disciplina, which means teaching. The term discipline is defined by the Oxford English Dictionary as “a branch of learning or knowledge”. Different scholars define the term “discipline” differently.
Following are the various forms of discipline:
(1) Basic Discipline: Discipline is a form of learning that is structured in terms of a single type of truth criterion and a determinate methodology that is derivative from it. Each discipline has its own network of concepts, which are distinctive and unique in nature.
(2) Applied Disciplines or Fields: The applied areas are those wherein the knowledge of basic disciplines are used. For example, scientific and industrial knowledge is used in technological applications. The areas of bio-engineering, bio-technology, applied physics, environmental biology and medical sciences are some of the examples of applied areas.
(3) Multidisciplinary and Interdisciplinary Areas: A more recent approach is to utilise one discipline or several disciplines as a centre for organizing curriculum.
Q2. Critically analyse different perspectives of disciplines.
Ans. Philosophical perspective of discipline
The philosophical perspectives of academic disciplines are about epistemology, i.e. how knowledge is organised and relates to reality; and intellectual basis, i.e. objects of enquiry, theories, concepts and its way of validating knowledge claims. Each and every discipline has its own philosophy, like ‘Philosophy of Science’, ‘Philosophy of Language’, etc.
Socio-political and Cultural perspectives of disciplines: Education is generally seen as the foundation of society, which brings economic wealth, social prosperity and political stability. It is a major aspect of development of any modern society and most significant indicator of overall development of any region. Besides this, the norms and principles of society and traditions, cultures and ways of living of people contribute to the formation of academic discipline. An academic discipline or field of study is a branch of knowledge that is taught and is researched as a part of education.
Historical perspective of discipline: The historical perspective of discipline focuses on the wider context which leads to the foundation of an academic discipline, its change over time, and its particular trajectory. Each and every discipline can be analysed by looking at its historical development.
Q3. What is learner-centered pedagogy? How does learner-centered pedagogy help the learners in construction of their knowledge? Illustrate with suitable examples.
Ans. The learner is the center of the teaching-learning process. Thus, the approach, which is directed towards the learner often known as learner-centered approach.
Usefulness of the learner-centered approach is given as follows:
(1) It nurtures the creativity of the students.
(2) It places students at the centre of teaching-learning process.
(3) Students performance is given due recognition.
Therefore, in learner-centered approach, a teacher has the following three critical roles to play:
(1) Observer and diagnostician of learner: Teachers must constantly watch the behaviour and activities of learners in and out of the classroom so as to estimate and diagnose strengths, weaknesses, learning needs and learning dispositions.
(2) Provider of the environment for learning: Once teachers diagnose the various learning needs of the learners, it becomes their primary duty to plan a learning environment that is conducive so that each learner would find enough scope and opportunity to fulfil his/her needs.