The Study of Transdisciplinary Collaboration 

Presenter

Anna Fraley Shilhan

Campus

UMass Amherst

Sponsor

Lydia Peterson, Department of Interdisciplinary Studies/BDIC, UMass Amherst

Schedule

Session 3, 1:30 PM - 2:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board C34, Poster Showcase Room (163), Row 4 (C31-C40) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to raise awareness of  “transdisciplinarity” as a framework for living, learning, and adapting. The knowledge I have gathered contributes to a definition of "transdisciplinarity" that offers a viable approach to meeting the challenges of tomorrow. 

As a student of interdisciplinary studies at UMass Amherst who has taken classes from over twenty departments, I have learned that many people are familiar with “interdisciplinary studies” but far fewer people are aware of “transdisciplinarity” as a framework for understanding interconnected and complex challenges. For example, to adapt to the effects of climate change, using a “transdisciplinary” lens will contribute to more effective solutions than solely relying on “interdisciplinary” approaches. 

To develop my working definition of “transdisciplinarity,” I have read peer-reviewed papers and multiple written texts, interviewed knowledgeable people, and conversed with non-academic people about their perspectives on living and learning. 

I have discovered that what “transdisciplinarity” is and what it may be able to offer us as a framework and a mindset is subjective and is subject to change according to context and application.  

As I continue to develop a definition of  “transdisciplinarity,” I hope to encourage others to consider their own interpretations and applications of the concept. As the world changes due to climate change, globalization, economic transition, and social instability, people are seeking another way of understanding these times of great change. I have found that a “transdisciplinary” perspective gives me hope that we will work in solidarity to meet the challenges we face.  

Keywords

Interdisciplinary , Exploratory, Global Transition , Environmental Humanities, Human Potential

Research Area

Sociology and Anthropology

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