In this blog post, we will look at the meaning of topic-integrated reading and how it can be used to foster critical thinking and knowledge integration.
Integrative reading is a critical and integrative reading that involves reading and reconstructing texts that present different perspectives and formats on the same or similar topics and themes. In this case, readers of integrative reading should not just compare texts of different content and format, but should also integrate the content of the texts selected according to their reading purpose to form their own perspective on the topic. This requires the ability to analyze the perspective presented in each text and to reconstruct it into one’s own system of thought. Subject-integrated reading The process of subject-integrated reading may vary depending on the purpose of the reading, but it generally follows the following procedure.
First, the reader sets a topic to explore according to the purpose of the reading. When choosing a topic, it is important to consider your own interests and learning goals. Choosing a topic is an important step in determining the direction of your reading, and in this process, you should consider your knowledge level and interests. For example, a reader interested in environmental issues may choose topics related to climate change, renewable energy, environmental policies, etc. Then, you can find books related to the topic by referring to the book title or book review, and make a reading list. In this process, it is a good idea for the reader to search widely for a variety of materials related to the topic to enrich the list. It is helpful to refer to the recommended book lists of online bookstores and the subject-based classification of libraries. Next, the reader should quickly skim through the collected books to determine which parts to focus on. If the text to be read is not related to the topic, the reader can remove it from the reading list or replace it with another text. This activity will help you to refine the topic you want to explore. When reading the selected passages, you should read them carefully and understand what you read in your own words. Understanding in your own words means interpreting the key concepts in the text in relation to your research topic.
After reading, the reader compares the content and format of the text with the author’s perspective and forms his or her own perspective on the topic to be explored. This perspective can be formed by criticizing or supporting a particular perspective in the text or by forming a new perspective that is different from the perspective in the text. Both critical and creative thinking are required in this process. The articles you have already read can be used as supporting evidence to support your point of view, and you can quote a part of the article you have read to do so. When quoting, you should indicate the exact source to give credibility to the reader.
Integrative reading of topics allows you to compare different perspectives to develop your critical thinking skills, and to develop your reasoning skills by identifying the writing intentions and perspectives of different authors. Critical thinking involves not just accepting the content of a text, but also assessing the logical structure of the text and the validity of the evidence presented. It also requires reading multiple texts without bias, which allows for a balanced understanding of the topic and the generation of knowledge in various fields based on a broad understanding of the topic. This plays an important role especially in the process of academic research or the acquisition of specialized knowledge.
Modern society has become more diverse than in the past, and this has led to an increase in social problems of a complex nature. Social problems of this nature cannot be solved with knowledge from just one field. It is only by integrating knowledge from the humanities, natural sciences, engineering, and the arts that new solutions can be created that did not exist before. For example, solving urban problems requires knowledge from multiple fields, including urban planning, sociology, economics, and environmental science. Topic-integrated reading is attracting attention as a reading method that develops the skills we all need to live in modern society. This kind of integrated thinking ability plays an important role not only in professional success but also in personal growth and development. Topic-integrated reading is a great help in developing the ability to solve complex problems through the convergence of knowledge, which helps us develop the strength to flexibly cope with the rapid changes in modern society.
Therefore, it is necessary to develop the ability to integrate knowledge from various fields and generate new ideas based on this through thematic integration reading. This is an important reading method that can enhance individual expertise and contribute to solving social problems. Thematic integration reading is more than just reading and is an essential tool for converging knowledge and seeking new solutions. Furthermore, this reading method is part of lifelong learning and provides a foundation for readers to continuously grow and develop. Through integrated reading, readers can actively respond to the changing social environment and cultivate the ability to think creatively and innovatively. This will ultimately establish itself as an important capability that contributes to the development of the individual and society.
