Open AccessA Case Study Approach to Train Early-Stage Investigators in Transdisciplinary Research
Author(s) -
Emily C. Benesh,
Laura E. Lamb,
Shahnjayla K. Connors,
Grant W. Farmer,
Katherine C. Fuh,
Jean Hunleth,
Katherine L. Montgomery,
Alex Ramsey,
Kelle H. Moley,
Graham A. Colditz,
Sarah Gehlert
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
transdisciplinary journal of engineering and science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 1949-0569
DOI - 10.22545/2015/0126
Subject(s) - enthusiasm , conceptualization , period (music) , duration (music) , psychology , medical education , computer science , medicine , artificial intelligence , social psychology , art , physics , literature , acoustics
Transdisciplinary (TD) research is a collaboration in which investigators from diverse backgrounds co-generate ideas. Few successful examples of TD research outcomes have been reported, possibly due to a training barrier. Here, TD trainees present a case study methodology that augmented classic training exercises by removing hierarchical barriers and allowing the practice of TD methodologies. A 30-minute development period was critical for the team to enter the conceptualization phase of TD research, making 90-minute sessions preferable for these exercises. Six sessions over an academic year were necessary for optimum idea formation. Generating buy-in was a challenge, as pressuring potential team members to participate would alter viewpoint equitability. Internal and external enthusiasm grew over the time period. Participation led to sustained collaborations and provided a marketable skillset. This method was low-cost and, likely, generalizable to other institutions. Thus, case study approaches may be effective tools to train researchers in TD interactions.