The course IDH 3404 at Florida State University (FSU) is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of interdisciplinary research and collaboration. This course is part of the Interdisciplinary Humanities program, which aims to foster a deeper understanding of complex issues and problems through the integration of multiple disciplines. In this course, students will explore the theoretical foundations of interdisciplinary research, examine case studies of successful interdisciplinary projects, and develop the skills necessary to design and implement their own interdisciplinary research projects.
Course Objectives and Outcomes
The primary objective of IDH 3404 is to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to engage in interdisciplinary research and collaboration. By the end of the course, students will be able to: define and explain the principles of interdisciplinary research, analyze and evaluate the strengths and limitations of different disciplinary approaches, and design and propose an interdisciplinary research project that addresses a complex problem or issue. Students will also develop essential skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication, which are critical for success in interdisciplinary research and collaboration.
Course Structure and Content
The course will be taught through a combination of lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities. The course content will be organized around several key themes, including: the theoretical foundations of interdisciplinary research, the principles and practices of collaboration, and the application of interdisciplinary research to real-world problems. Students will have the opportunity to engage with a range of disciplinary perspectives, including humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The course will also feature guest lectures from experts in interdisciplinary research and collaboration, who will share their experiences and insights with students.
| Course Theme | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| Theoretical Foundations | Definitions and principles of interdisciplinary research, historical development of interdisciplinary research, benefits and challenges of interdisciplinary research |
| Principles and Practices of Collaboration | Communication and teamwork, conflict resolution and negotiation, project management and coordination |
| Application of Interdisciplinary Research | Case studies of successful interdisciplinary projects, real-world problems and applications, evaluation and assessment of interdisciplinary research |
Assessment and Evaluation
Student learning and progress in IDH 3404 will be assessed through a range of evaluation methods, including: class participation and engagement, written assignments and reflections, and a final research project proposal. The final project proposal will require students to apply the principles and practices of interdisciplinary research to a real-world problem or issue, and to design a research project that integrates multiple disciplinary perspectives. The assessment and evaluation methods will be designed to promote student learning and engagement, and to provide students with feedback and guidance throughout the course.
Required Readings and Resources
The required readings and resources for IDH 3404 will include a range of texts, articles, and online resources that provide an introduction to the principles and practices of interdisciplinary research and collaboration. Students will also have access to a range of online resources and tools, including research databases and libraries, collaboration and project management software, and online learning platforms and communities. The required readings and resources will be designed to promote student learning and engagement, and to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in interdisciplinary research and collaboration.
- Required textbooks: Interdisciplinary Research: Process and Theory by Allen F. Repko, and Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Research by Sharon J. Derry
- Recommended readings: Interdisciplinary Research and Collaboration by the National Academies, and The Oxford Handbook of Interdisciplinary by Robert Frodeman
- Online resources: FSU library databases, online learning platforms and communities, collaboration and project management software
What are the prerequisites for IDH 3404?
+There are no prerequisites for IDH 3404, but students are expected to have a basic understanding of research principles and methods. Students from all disciplines and backgrounds are welcome to enroll in the course.
How will the course be taught and delivered?
+The course will be taught through a combination of lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities. The course will be delivered on campus, with some online components and resources available to students.
What are the learning outcomes for IDH 3404?
+By the end of the course, students will be able to define and explain the principles of interdisciplinary research, analyze and evaluate the strengths and limitations of different disciplinary approaches, and design and propose an interdisciplinary research project that addresses a complex problem or issue.
