TDRI801 – Transdisciplinary Research Theoretical Framework

Module code

TDRI801

Module title

Transdisciplinary Research Theoretical Framework

Prescription

This module introduces the theoretical framework of transdisciplinary research (TDR) that forms a modern basis of integrative knowledge generation using systematic and critical development of an understanding of aspects of reality, including experience and contextualised insight, seeking innovative intervention to bring about change for the common good. The student will analyse and critically evaluate the theoretical framework of transdisciplinary research and its techniques and applications. The focus is on developing an understanding of the various ways in which disciplinary boundaries can be crossed while maintaining a robust and transparent theoretical basis and adding value that cannot be obtained by staying within the framework of one particular discipline. The student will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the three pillars of TDR and how to use TDR to cater for multiple definitions of quality outcomes for a research project. The student will engage with a number of research case studies and, based on the theoretical knowledge acquired, will decide and justify that the research project is suited to the TDR framework. By the end of the module, the student will be able to communicate the unique value-add of TDR when applied to these projects.

Programmes

RI1601
RI1602

NZQA Level

Level 8

NZQA Credits

Delivery method

Web-Based

Learning hours

Total learning hours: 300

Resources required

Learning Outcomes: • Understand, analyse and critically evaluate the transdisciniplinary research framework, its techniques and its applications.
• Demonstrate a clear understanding of the benefits of the transdisciplinary approach and justify a transdisciplinary approach to applied research to provide innovative solutions in a real-world context.
• Provide an outline of the research problem as defined by a client, explored through a process of outcome specification and design thinking methods to conceptualise effective innovative solutions for the context, that can be communicated to diverse stakeholders.
• Apply a transdisciplinary approach that develops an ethical and academically rigorous solution to a problem. Develop a draft plan appropriate to the context that addresses complexity and uncertainty
Content: The three pillars of TDR and Ethics
• Epistemology
• Ontology
• Logic
• Ethics and ambiguity
Transdisciplinary research case studies
The transdisciplinary research framework, general design thinking principles, their techniques and their applications
Translating real-world problems into research activities understood and accepted by stakeholders
Real-world focus, articulation of various expressions of quality and fit-for-purpose solutions
Communication and implementation strategies
Outcome specification and design thinking principles for conceptualising effective solutions for the context.
Teaching and Learning Strategy: A variety of teaching and learning methods will be utilised with facilitation and coaching being the primary mode of delivery.
Delivery will be tailored for each student depending on their current abilities, expertise, requirements and environment. It will include a self-study element of reading and reporting on transdisciplinary case studies in a field related to their chosen research theme.
The module will be delivered through an integrated online resource centre, technology applications and synchronous and asynchronous activities. Learning activities will be delivered in ways appropriate to the content and/or capability to be investigated and will be situated in authentic learning environments, which lend themselves to mentoring and supervision.
Synchronous and asynchronous activities will include seminars, presentations and workshops and may employ digital technologies such as web/videoconferencing.
It is anticipated the student will have all necessary access to the technologies required for successful completion of this module.
Physical facilitation and coaching sessions will take the form of community of practice workshops based, run and cast via audio-video feeds from Wintec’s Design Factory, a holistic and flexible learning space.
Students will be encouraged to use the space and virtual audio-video feeds to work in teams or as individuals. Other teaching methods include industry mentors, expert guest speakers, literature reviews interviewing and public presentation. Wintec currently uses the Moodle e-learning platform to support synchronous, asynchronous and online modes. It is anticipated the student will have all necessary access to the technologies required for successful completion of this module.
The student will be part of a group of fellow students with monthly discussion forums either at Wintec if geographically feasible or through methods such as video conferencing and social media. In this way students are embedded in a community of practice and get exposure to a variety of transdisciplinary research activities currently active in the Centre for Research and Applied Innovation.. Both staff and students participate in the community of practice in an ongoing way.
Assessment Criteria: Portfolio: In this transdisciplinary environment, portfolios will be web-based and built upon a collection of individual or group-based pieces of work. This work will provide evidence to demonstrate completion of identified tasks, including reflection, selection of processes / procedures of evaluation and the final outcome (report, device, object).

Assessment Rubric: Assessment rubrics will be used to detail a set of criteria and performance descriptors illustrating the performance being measured.
Learning and Teaching Resource: An extended reading list will be supplied by the supervisors and facilitators at commencement of, and during the module. This will be updated annually.