Transdisciplinary Research in Science

This exercise should be used in one of the first meetings or classes before groups are assigned and proposal-writing or research beings. Everyone should respond to the questions below individually, then come together in class or as a group afterward to make a combined list of responses to each question. Discuss the similarities and differences of disciplinary approaches to research.

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Instructions:

 

Please think about your own discipline (social science, engineering, natural/environmental science) as you answer the following questions. Be prepared to discuss your responses.

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1. Is applied research or basic research more important to your research?

2. In your research, what methods do you use (e.g. quantitative, qualitative, experimental, case study, observational, modeling, etc.)?

3. How do you ensure that measurements are valid?

4. Is your research objective or subjective? Can it be both?