There are always varying steps to understanding and mastering any topic or idea, but the first step always begins with a basic definition of the subject. Interdisciplinary Studies is no exception to this and can be defined as a “cognitive process by which individuals or groups draw on disciplinary perspectives and integrate their insights and modes of thinking to advance their understanding of a complex problem with the goal of applying the understanding to a real-world problem” (Repko 63). The field is also broken down into two main approaches: Instrumental and Critical. Instrumental focuses on integrating knowledge from disciplines to solve problems or develop a greater understanding. Critical, on the other hand, focuses on critiquing and challenging pre-existing knowledge or understanding, often with the final goal being to replace said knowledge and education based on it. Fisher develops a simpler definition in “The Interdisciplinary Life” by stating that IDS (Interdisciplinary Studies) refers to integrating all relevant aspects of at least two or more disciplines or areas of knowledge in accessible spaces with mutual respect. Now with a general understanding of IDS, we can look at how it relates to and enables creative thinking.
As previously mentioned, IDS draws on multiple disciplines and perspectives that are integrated into a more robust solution or understanding, and this process and product develop creative thinking. Individuals using the process must think outside of single disciplines and find unique ways of combining the multiple disciplines they are looking at. This involves understanding and synthesizing potentially different viewpoints, ideas, concepts, and information as well as potential biases. Through this, individuals can learn new ways of thinking about different topics that would not be possible through a single discipline approach. Individuals also have unique experiences from this process, which helps foster creative thinking as well.
Although I just started learning about IDS, I have developed creative thinking throughout my life and career. I work in IT, which is not usually thought of as a creative field. This, however, doesn’t stop me from incorporating creativity into my job every day by thinking outside of the box for alternative solutions and ideas that can help myself and others. For example, working in the IT department at the college requires creativity when planning a project that calls for replacing all the computers in a computer lab. In this case, I incorporated different disciplines into the planning, from design to computer science to inclusivity to functionality. I thought about how to make the room more appealing appearance wise as well as how to make it the most accessible to all students. I also considered the technological requirements like printers and projectors and well as potential exams in the room. Outside of my career, I solve daily life problems through nonstandard ways and enjoy creative hobbies like sewing, where I make my own path.
Since I work in IT, you are probably wondering why I chose IDS as my major instead of IT. I was originally majoring in IT, but after learning that I have a math disability, I decided that IT was not the right major for me. This was due to the high number of math courses in the curriculum that I would not have been able to pass. I stumbled upon IDS when looking for a degree that could still incorporate my IT classes, and in the process, I realized that the degree would be a much better fit for me. I have always been a jack of all trades, and IDS mirrors that part of my personality and abilities. I can study other areas in addition to IT, such as Psychology, which has always been a great interest of mine.
After I graduate with my degree in IDS, I hope to apply for a Master’s program in Psychology. After completing my Master’s, I want to work towards becoming a licensed therapist. By learning the IDS process and how to synthesize different aspects of discipline together, I want to develop more creative approaches and solutions to problems, as well as a more comprehensive understanding of said problems in a greater context. I also want to gain greater understanding into conflicting viewpoints, biases, values, and assumptions, and how to integrate them together. Overall, I believe having the IDS creative mindset can benefit me in Psychology by most importantly giving me an open mindset, which is critical when working with clients as a therapist.
References
Fisher, Rob. “The Interdisciplinary Life.” Progressive Connexions ~ Interdisciplinary
Life, Progressive Connexions, 5 May 2017,
https://www.progressiveconnexions.net/2017/the-interdisciplinary-life/.
Repko, Allen, F. et al. Introduction to Interdisciplinary Studies. Available from: Yuzu
Reader, (3rd Edition). SAGE Publications, Inc. (US), 2019.
Vaughan, Jane. “Creativity and Interdisciplinary Studies.” Adobe Express, Jane
Vaughan, https://express.adobe.com/page/uNQBNKG1QCk8z/.