Inspired by Fink’s (2013) work, the adapted Taxonomy of Significant Learning offers a holistic framework for embedding global engagement or the SDGs into course design and learning outcomes. By balancing six interrelated dimensions of teaching and learning, this framework integrates global learning into student experiences and fosters meaningful engagement with complex, real-world challenges. This approach shifts the focus from content-centered instruction to what is most impactful and enduring for students to take away from the course.
The six dimensions are:
- Foundation Knowledge: Construct knowledge and unlearn biases
- Caring: Develop social obligations and appreciation for diversity
- Human Dimension: Explore one’s positionality and gain new perspectives
- Integration: Connect learning with broader realms of life
- Competence: Develop and practice essential disciplinary skills
- Application: Demonstrate knowledge and skills to equitably tackle real-world problems
Additionally, this taxonomy has greater potential to corresponds with the four quadrants of the Indigenous Medicine Wheel, encompassing key facets of teaching and learning in higher education. This framework situates curriculum within a decolonizing lens, challenging dominant narratives while actively prioritizing diversity and equity in course design and implementation.
| Indigenous Medicine Wheel | Adapted Taxonomy of Significant Learning |
|---|---|
| Emotional | Caring |
| Spiritual | Human Dimension |
| Integration | |
| Physical | Competence |
| Application | |
| Mental | Foundational Knowledge |
Adapted Taxonomy of Significant Learning
The Taxonomy of Significant Learning, adapted by Yunyi Chen, (in consultation with Dr. Lindsay Brant, Associate Director, Indigenous Curriculum Development, Queen's Health Sciences and Aaron St. Pierre, former Associate Director, Office of Indigenous Initiatives) Educational Developer-Global Learning, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Centre for Teaching & Learning, Queen’s University, is shared under a .
Please note: The Medicine Wheel originates from Anishinaabe culture and tradition. This Indigenous knowledge is used with respect and appreciation in this framework for educational purposes. It remains the cultural property of the Indigenous Peoples with whom it originates.
The Taxonomy of Significant Learning image on the right features clickable plus (+) icons positioned over each dimension of the framework. Select a plus icon to explore further details.
Chen, Y. & Brant, L. (2022 February). Framing Pedagogy of Peace in the Context of Student Success [workshop]. Centre for Teaching and Learning, Queen’s University.
Chen, Y., & Fontaine, L. (2019 November) wiingashk (sweet grass): Braiding into Inclusive Education. [workshop]. Centre for the Advancement of Teaching & Learning, University of Manitoba.
Fink, L. Dee. (2013). Creating Significant Learning Experiences: An Integrated Approach to Designing College Courses. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.
lets others remix, tweak, and build upon our work non-commercially, as long as they credit us and indicate if changes were made. Use this citation format: Developing Global Engaged Curriculum. Centre for Teaching and Learning, Queen’s University