ISJ April 2014: The World Studies Extended Essay: challenging students on global issues – an interdisciplinary approach

Angela Rivière

Abstract:

The world Studies Extended Essay (WSEE) is a challenging but rewarding experience that allows students to explore issues of global significance through an interdisciplinary approach. They are able to ‘integrate knowledge and modes of thinking from two […] disciplines in order to […] offer explanations in ways that would not have been possible through single disciplinary means’ (Boix- Mansilla and Dawes, 2007: 219).

As a consequence they must think critically and creatively about these issues, and develop the intellectual rigour of synthesising multiple perspectives in tackling real, locally-grounded and personally relevant research questions. It is a unique and exciting opportunity to engage with an increasingly widespread appreciation for the knowledge, skills and aptitudes that interdisciplinarity promotes.