Defining interdisciplinary research: conclusions from a critical review of the literature.
OBJECTIVE
To summarize findings from a systematic exploration of existing literature and views regarding interdisciplinarity, to discuss themes and components of such work, and to propose a theoretically based definition of interdisciplinary research.


METHODS
Two major data sources were used: interviews with researchers from various disciplines, and a systematic review of the education, business, and health care literature from January 1980 through January 2005.


METHODS
Systematic review of literature, one-on-one interviews, field test (survey).


METHODS
We reviewed 14 definitions of interdisciplinarity, the characteristics of 42 interdisciplinary research publications from multiple fields of study, and 14 researcher interviews to arrive at a preliminary definition of interdisciplinary research. That definition was then field tested by 12 individuals with interdisciplinary research experience, and their responses incorporated into the definition of interdisciplinary research proposed in this paper.


RESULTS
Three key definitional characteristics were identified: the qualitative mode of research (and its theoretical underpinnings), existence of a continuum of synthesis among disciplines, and the desired outcome of the interdisciplinary research.


CONCLUSIONS
Existing literature from several fields did not provide a definition for interdisciplinary research of sufficient specificity to facilitate activities such as identification of the competencies, structure, and resources needed for health care and health policy research. This analysis led to the proposed definition, which is designed to aid decision makers in funding agencies/program committees and researchers to identify and take full advantage the interdisciplinary approach, and to serve as a basis for competency-based formalized training to provide researchers with interdisciplinary skills.
Aboelela
Sally W
SW
Columbia University School of Nursing, 630 W 168th St. New York, NY 10032, USA.
Larson
Elaine
E
Bakken
Suzanne
S
Carrasquillo
Olveen
O
Formicola
Allan
A
Glied
Sherry A
SA
Haas
Janet
J
Gebbie
Kristine M
KM
D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D006801:Humans; D033183:Interdisciplinary Communication; D012106:Research / Q000458:organization & administration*