TLM (THREE LAYERS METHODOLOGY) MODEL FACING MULTIDISCIPLINARY EDUCATION

Abstract

One of the main challenges in education today is the need to adapt processes to the multidisciplinary world in which cross-domain communication is essential. Therefore, in this setting, education has to bring teachers and students from various backgrounds to work together, to develop a mutual language and synergistic teamwork and clear added value. These important challenges have gained only little attention by scholars to date. In our School of Multidisciplinary Studies, students who attend classes are from different departments and speak different professional languages. To address these challenges, we have created and implemented the TLM-Three Layers Methodology model, guided by the research question: how to assess and enhance teaching and learning within a multidisciplinary framework. Or, in other words, what educational processes need to be improved, developed and evaluated. In this research, we present the TLM model as we put to practice in our Multidisciplinary School at our institution, in which the curriculum includes courses in technology, the humanities and social sciences, community-engaged learning and entrepreneurship. Furthermore, teaching methods range from lectures to project-based learning courses (PBLs), to workshops in design of technological Proof of Concept (POCs). The research presents a program aimed at initiating processes of connection between faculty teams and promoting the quality of teaching for students, from a multidisciplinary point of view. The program is based on a holistic, innovative process that includes three layers: Peer Learning, Peer Review and Teaching Evaluation. The TLM model is groundbreaking both from an academic practical perspective and from a research perspective, while creating synergy and mutual relationships between its layers. It highlights the changes in teaching and learning patterns, the introduction of new digital tools, and unique Generation Z approach. In this article, we will present the process conducted, the evaluation study and implications.