CTE and the Common Core can address the problem of silos

Abstract

There is no doubt but that the education realm is replete with silos of experts of one discipline or another whose knowledge and teachings do not normally crossover into others. Yet the Common Core’s call for career and college readiness virtually requires such subject integration -- especially between the disciplines we consider academic and those we call and place under the aegis of career and technical education (CTE). More than that, it underscores that preparing to be ready for college or ready for career are not mutually exclusive goals. What’s necessary is for those who work in academic disciplines and CTE to come together and work out ways of integrating their learning. When this is done, studies have shown that it works to the benefit of student performance in both areas.