Thematic learning (often synonym with thematic instruction) is an instructional method of teaching in which emphasis is given on choosing a specific theme for teaching one or many concepts . It is based on integrating various information and use it to demonstrate the topic. Pedagogy of thematic learning is based on its exploration of broad areas in one theme.
Basics of Thematic learning
Thematic learning is based on the idea that knowledge acquisition is efficient among students when they learn in the context of a coherent and holistic way and when they can associate whatever they learn to their surrounding and real life examples. Thematic instruction seeks to put the cognitive skills such as reading, thinking, memorizing, and writing in the context of a real life situation under the broad aim to allow creative exploration.
Steps of Thematic learning
Under the thematic learning instruction, organization of curriculum can be based on Macro or Micro theme depending upon the topic to be covered. Main steps includes.
Deciding a theme: Theme can be decided by teacher and sometimes by students and it can be a smaller concept (e.g. village, mother, climate etc.) to a large and integrated system (e.g. ecosystem, atmosphere etc.)
Integration of theme with existing curriculum: Next step of thematic learning is designing the theme in an integrative ways to existing curricula keeping the skill and content knowledge in mind.
Designing Instructions and co-curricular plans: This step include organizing other resources and extra-curricular activities for demonstrating the theme (e.g. field trip or visit to botanical garden).
Group Activities and discussion: Group activities and discussion enable students to participate and reach on a shared perspective of the theme. This also helps in creative exploration of the subject.
Significance of thematic learning
Thematic learning is a newer concept in pedagogy. It is proved to be a powerful instructional method for integrating various concepts in curriculum by daily life examples and experiences.Thematic learning helps in promoting learning with understanding and discourage rote learning.