Preparing Emerging Doctoral Scholars for Transdisciplinary Research: A Developmental Approach

Abstract

Research models that bridge disciplinary, theoretical, and methodological boundaries are increasingly common as funders and the public push for effective responses to pressing social problems. Although social work is inherently an integrative discipline, there is growing recognition of the need to better prepare emerging scholars for sophisticated transdisciplinary and translational research environments. This article outlines a developmental, competency-oriented approach to enhancing the readiness of doctoral students and emerging scholars in social work and allied disciplines for transdisciplinary research, describes an array of pedagogical tools applicable in doctoral course work, and urges coordinated attention to enhancing the field’s transdisciplinary training capacity.

KEYWORDS:

• doctoral education
• interdisciplinary
• pedagogy
• transdisciplinary
• translational

Notes

¹ Examples of individualized learning plan guidelines and formats can be found at the Intersections of Mental Health Perspectives in Addictions Research Training (http://www.addictionsresearchtraining.ca/resources/forms.html) and the University of Washington social work doctoral program (http://socialwork.uw.edu/programs/phd-manuals-forms/guidelines-for-the-program-of-study-leading-to-the-general-examination-0).