Interdistsiplinaarsus

Interdistsiplinaarsus is the practice of drawing on theories, methods, and data from more than one discipline to study a question, solve a problem, or generate knowledge that cannot be fully captured by a single field. It emphasizes integration across domains to produce more comprehensive explanations or innovative solutions, while allowing for contributions from distinct disciplinary perspectives.

It is commonly contrasted with multidisciplinary work, where disciplines contribute separately, and with transdisciplinary work, which seeks deeper integration and often includes non-academic stakeholders. Interdistsiplinaarsus aims to combine insights rather than merely juxtapose them, seeking shared questions and compatible methodologies.

The concept gained prominence in the latter part of the 20th century as research funding and policy-minded authorities encouraged cross-field collaboration to address complex societal challenges. It has since been applied in fields such as environmental studies, public health, urban planning, engineering, and education.

Practices include joint research teams, cross-disciplinary training, modular curricula, and project frameworks that require explicit integration of theories and methods. Data sharing, shared metrics, and iterative feedback among disciplines support coherent analysis and more robust conclusions.

Advocates highlight potential benefits: richer understanding, more durable policy recommendations, and greater methodological versatility. Critics warn of coordination costs, epistemological tensions, risk of superficial integration, and misaligned incentives in funding and publication. Successful interdistsiplinaarsus typically relies on clear goals, mutual respect, and governance that fosters collaboration.

See also: interdisciplinarity, multidisciplinary, transdisciplinarity, systems thinking, integrated education.