transdisciplinarity

Transdisciplinarity is an approach to research and problem solving that seeks to integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines and from non-academic stakeholders to address complex real-world issues. Unlike multidisciplinary or interdisciplinary work, transdisciplinarity aims to produce new conceptual frameworks, methods, and solutions that transcend traditional boundaries. It emphasizes co-creation of knowledge with practitioners, policy makers, and local communities, iterative collaboration, reflexivity, and the integration of diverse forms of knowledge, including experiential and indigenous knowledge.

Origins and development: The term emerged in the latter part of the 20th century in science studies and systems theory, and was further developed by scholars who argued for integrating natural, social, and humanistic disciplines with non-academic perspectives. It has since been applied across sustainability science, urban planning, health, education, and policy to address problems that do not fit neatly within a single field.

Approaches and methods: Transdisciplinary research typically involves boundary-spanning teams, stakeholder participation, and the co-design of research questions. Methods include scenario building, participatory workshops, boundary objects, and living laboratories. The aim is social relevance and practical applicability while maintaining methodological rigor through explicit integration of diverse epistemologies and practices.

Criticisms and challenges: Critics point to governance complexities, epistemological tensions, power imbalances between researchers and stakeholders, and questions about rigor and evaluation. Practical challenges include coordinating diverse actors, securing funding, and aligning institutional incentives with collaborative, long-term work.

Applications: It is used in sustainability policy, climate adaptation, public health, urban development, and education, where integrated knowledge production seeks to inform decisions and generate durable, real-world impact.