Implementation of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Research Principles in Doctoral Schools: Options of Action for Universities

This article deals with the challenges which arise from the implementation of inter- and transdisciplinary research principles in doctoral schools, within the context of a planned inter- and transdisciplinary doctoral school at BOKU University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences Vienna. Transdisciplinarity is seen as dialogue, as transgression between science and society. This approach provokes questions concerning the communication between different groups of actors and in particular concerning the role of transdisciplinary partners. Transdisciplinarity also means additional requirements concerning the abilities of the involved students and academic teachers. New criteria have to be developed to evaluate transdisci- plinary research results. Finally, the consequences on the organisational structure of universities and the development of their human resources are discussed.

08.03.2006 | Andreas Muhar & Andrea Kinsperger (Wien)