Why Transdisciplinary Research (TDR)?
Transdisciplinary research (TDR) is a very promising approach when it comes to addressing complex societal challenges. However, transdisciplinary approaches are not for every kind of research.
In today's world, we face complex challenges. Science is increasingly requested to find approaches to help to overcome them. But what kind of knowledge and research can help to address such complex societal challenges? Transdisciplinary research is increasingly seen as a promising approach to achieve this goal, as it integrates different perspectives, including different academic disciplines and non-academic knowledge. It brings together scientists, decision-makers, and affected people to analyse the problems, develop what they envision as desirable futures, and work on strategies and actions supporting the necessary changes.
Aspects that help to decide if TDR is promising
TDR involves scientists across disciplines and stakeholders from different sectors and co-produces knowledge to address societal challenges. But for which goals and in which context conditions should you engage intensely with stakeholders? This question is especially important, as both researchers and stakeholders have limited time and financial resources.
TDR is especially promising:
when normative questions and changes are addressed;
when knowledge is needed that enables actions;
when the issues at stake are contested (please keep in mind that working on contested or conflictive topics requests soud facilitation and sometimes mediation skills);
when the actor diversity is high;
when several actors have an interest in the project’s topic and goals.