Checklist for interdisciplinary research and practice

¶ … Interdisciplinarians

Collaboration among researchers in multiple disciplines is the essence of interdisciplinarity and entails the collective conception, development, and pursuit of a research problem (Simon et al., 757). Doing this effectively requires time to develop a common language, resolve epistemological differences, and define research expectations. It is important that interdisciplinarians have a solid sense of their own strengths and areas for improvement in order to maximum their work in the field. Augsburg offers 21 salient traits that all interdisciplinarians should consider.

Traits I Possess:

Reliability -- This trait is rooted in the quality of trustworthiness, accountability, and integrity; the mark of a constant or known variable. I would further define reliability as being available and possessing the tenacity to see even the most difficult task through to fruition. I often encounter the need for this when I find myself addressing projects with limited resources and tight deadlines.

2. Preference for diversity -- This is often regarded as an "observational fondness and inquisitiveness for the unknown; thirst for knowledge" (Bruhn 58). I am fortunate to see reflections of diversity in my workplace every day. I have come to value the diversity of my colleagues' backgrounds and experience, as well as the diversity of the varied projects we tackle. I find that diversity is much more exciting than homogeneity in my working life. Diversity provides the spice.

3. Patience -- Patience, in my estimation, is having an open and calm spirit. It is the willingness to silence thoughts of annoyance and anxiety. I often have to employ this trait in the workplace. In the face of a frustration or failure, patience truly is a virtue and helps to control the temper and alleviate feelings of angst.

4. Tolerance for ambiguity -- In many of life's situations, there are no specifics. Some work roles and projects have no blueprint. Some relationships (personal or professional) have mixed and unclear signals. The trait of tolerance in the face of ambiguity relates back to patience, particularly when there is a lack of clarity.

5. Resilience -- I would define resiliency in terms of having patience when dealing with criticism or a setback. It is the art of bouncing back.

6. Having a thick skin- This is the colloquial expression for resiliency. It means not being easily offended or hurt. None of us are without room for growth. I have learned not to internalize criticisms I might receive. There is a stark difference between who I am and what my abilities in any given area may be. I also have the ability to adjust my attitude and reorder my steps when given constructive criticism, particularly from those with more experience or enlightenment in an area that I feel will be beneficial to me in the future.

7. Adventurous -- Being adventurous means being willing to engage in and enjoy spontaneity, flexibility, curiosity, and investigation, while resisting the urge to abandon reason. It is not impulsiveness; rather it is the desire to experience the excitement that comes from the non-routine. I would classify myself as adventurous, without taking unnecessary risks.

8. Flexibility -- Flexibility is synonymous with adaptability. It is the openness to new scenarios and change. My work involves a great deal of multi-tasking, so this trait proves very useful. I also have to find creative ways of approaching challenges. At times, this means assimilating new information and processes. Rigidity would be hindrance to me.

9. Broad interests -- It is important to have a sense of curiosity and willingness to learn or attempt many different things. This trait relates to a thirst for knowledge and experience. At times, I find myself working in groups with specialists with very niche talents. I am inquisitive and seek to better understand their area of expertise. It is important to listen carefully to and learn to speak the language of those with whom I have to collaborate.

10. Broad education -- I define this as seeking and possessing an understanding of myriad things. Today's challenges may have a wide range of possible solutions (Vick 172). The breadth of one's knowledge helps to provide a foundation for making reasonable and effective decisions.

11. A sense of dissatisfaction with monodisciplinary constraints -- I find a lack of fulfillment when I am regimented to narrow or limited perspectives and approaches to problems.

12. Self-secure -- I have confidence in who I am and what I believe in.

13. High degree of ego strength -- This is being self-assured of ones' own abilities and judgment. However, this is not cockiness. I have confidence in the solutions I propose and an ability to weigh options and select the most viable course of action.

14. Initiative and assertiveness -- These traits really relate back to self-confidence and being unafraid to ask questions, explore ideas or tactfully express an opinion.

15. Ability to work in groups -- Striking a proper tone in team settings is valuable. I feel that I practice the art of patience, communication, cooperation, constructive criticism, and leadership in groups as appropriate. I value the opinions and input of others and attempt to be a calming influence to jeopardy projects. I vocalize ideas and make contributions while trying to offer support to end goals, rather than just coasting on the contributions of others.

16. Sensitivity to others -- I have a vast capacity for empathy and a sense of selflessness in dealing with my peers, friends, loved ones, and even superiors in the work place. Life is a stressful journey. Sooner or later we all need assistance or encouragement. I operate from the standpoint that "next time it may be me" (Simon et al., 761).

17. Need for achievement -- I feel this trait is perhaps the most significant of the list and relevant to my personal philosophies. It is the thirst for progress and development. Without this, it is harder to achieve the aforementioned traits. It is the catalyst for accomplishing all things. Opportunities are not trivialized or wasted when there is a need for achievement.