Definitions
What is an academic discipline?
A branch of knowledge studied and researched at higher education level.
Algebra belongs to which discipline?
Mathematics
How do subjects relate to disciplines?
Subjects are parts of a discipline, simplified for learning.
In the tree analogy, what are the branches?
Subjects
True/False: Subjects are broader than disciplines.
False
Define “school subject.”
An area of knowledge taught at school level, adapted for age and syllabus.
Sociology belongs to which discipline?
Social Sciences
Give one reason why teachers should know the discipline.
To connect classroom teaching to the larger framework of knowledge.
In the basket analogy, what is the basket?
Discipline
Match: Physics → ?
Natural Sciences
Name 3 features of a discipline.
Specialized knowledge, unique theories/concepts, specific research methods.
“Photosynthesis” belongs to which discipline?
Natural Sciences (Biology)
How can new subjects emerge?
Through new research and changes in the discipline (e.g., Environmental Studies).
In the vegetable analogy, what are the vegetables?
Topics or subjects
Name a subject that belongs to two disciplines.
Statistics (Mathematics & Economics)
What is “institutional manifestation” in a discipline?
The presence of subjects, academic departments, and associations related to the discipline.
Political Science belongs to which discipline?
Social Sciences
How do disciplines provide a framework for subjects?
They define boundaries, methods, and core concepts for subjects.
In the tree analogy, what is the trunk?
Discipline
Give one example of interdisciplinary learning.
Environmental Science combining Biology, Chemistry, and Geography.
Quote a definition by Deng Z
Deng Z: “Field or branch of learning affiliated with an academic department of a university…”.
Name two subjects under Humanities.
Literature, Philosophy, Art, Religion, Cultural Studies
Explain why disciplines evolve over time.
Due to research, discoveries, and interdisciplinary influences.
In the basket analogy, can a vegetable belong to two baskets?
Yes, topics can belong to multiple disciplines.
Explain how research in a discipline changes school subjects.
New findings update curriculum and create new subjects/topics.