TRANSDISCIPLINARITY Meaning and
Definition
-
Transdisciplinarity refers to a mode of study or research that goes beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries, recognizing the interconnectedness and complexity of real-world issues. It entails the integration of knowledge and methodologies from various academic disciplines and non-academic fields, fostering collaboration and dialogue among experts with different backgrounds.
Transdisciplinarity emphasizes a holistic approach to address multifaceted problems, acknowledging that no single discipline can fully comprehend or resolve them alone. It strives to bridge gaps between academic and non-academic domains, inviting input from stakeholders such as policymakers, practitioners, and community members to enhance the relevance and applicability of research outcomes.
This interdisciplinary approach aims to break down silos, encouraging scholars and practitioners to combine their expertise and explore complex problems from multiple angles. By moving beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries, transdisciplinarity seeks to generate new insights, uncover potential connections and interdependencies, and propose innovative solutions to address urgent societal challenges.
Adopting a transdisciplinary approach involves navigating diverse epistemologies, methodologies, and languages, which can be both challenging and enriching. It necessitates openness, flexibility, and a willingness to embrace different perspectives, fostering a collaborative and inclusive research environment.
Transdisciplinarity is increasingly recognized as a valuable approach in addressing the complex and interconnected issues of our time, such as climate change, sustainable development, and public health. It promotes a more comprehensive understanding of problems and provides a foundation for generating integrated knowledge that can inform policy-making, problem-solving, and transformative action.
Etymology of TRANSDISCIPLINARITY
The word "transdisciplinarity" is derived from the combination of three components: "trans", "disciplin", and "arity".
1. "Trans" is a Latin prefix meaning "across" or "beyond". It signifies going beyond or crossing the boundaries of a particular domain.
2. "Disciplin" is derived from the Latin word "disciplinare", which means to teach or instruct. It relates to disciplines or fields of study that have established knowledge and methodologies.
3. "-arity" is a suffix that indicates a state or condition.
Therefore, when combined, "transdisciplinarity" refers to a state or condition of going beyond and integrating multiple disciplines or fields of study. It denotes an approach or concept that transcends boundaries and combines knowledge and methodologies from different disciplines to tackle complex problems.
