Interdisciplinary Studies (Coco)

Construct a relationship tree/chart and demonstrate the relationship between the disciplines that you have focused on or intend to focus on as part of your Interdisciplinary Studies degree. How are they related? How do they connect together? What larger areas are they part of?

If this sounds difficult, you are overthinking it!

Full Answer Section

     
  • Art is the creation of works of beauty and expression. It is related to all other disciplines because it can be used to communicate ideas, emotions, and experiences.

The disciplines of interdisciplinary studies are all related to each other in a number of ways. For example, philosophy can be used to analyze the ethical implications of scientific research. History can be used to understand the development of different social and political systems. Art can be used to teach us about different cultures and perspectives.

The larger areas of humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences are also interrelated. The humanities focus on the human experience, the social sciences focus on human society, and the natural sciences focus on the natural world. However, there is a great deal of overlap between these areas. For example, psychology is a social science that also draws on the humanities and the natural sciences.

Example of an Interdisciplinary Studies Project

One example of an interdisciplinary studies project is a study of the impact of climate change on indigenous communities. This project would draw on knowledge from a variety of disciplines, including anthropology, economics, environmental science, and political science.

The project could begin by examining the traditional knowledge of indigenous communities about climate change. Anthropologists could interview members of indigenous communities to learn about their understanding of climate change and its impacts on their lives. Economists could study the economic impacts of climate change on indigenous communities, such as the loss of traditional livelihoods. Environmental scientists could study the physical impacts of climate change on indigenous communities, such as the increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. Political scientists could study the policies and programs that are being implemented to help indigenous communities adapt to climate change.

The findings from this project could be used to develop more effective policies and programs to help indigenous communities adapt to climate change. The project could also raise awareness of the impacts of climate change on indigenous communities and the need to protect their traditional knowledge and way of life.

Conclusion

The disciplines of interdisciplinary studies are all related to each other in a number of ways. By studying multiple disciplines, students can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the world and the challenges that we face. Interdisciplinary studies can also help students to develop the skills and knowledge they need to solve complex problems and create a more just and sustainable world.

Sample Answer

   

Relationship Tree/Chart of Interdisciplinary Studies Disciplines

Central Disciplines

  • Philosophy
  • Science
  • History
  • Art

Related Disciplines

  • Mathematics
  • Anthropology
  • Economics
  • Political Science
  • Psychology
  • Sociology

Larger Areas

  • Humanities
  • Social Sciences
  • Natural Sciences

Relationships and Connections

  • Philosophy is the study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language. It is related to all other disciplines because it asks questions about the nature of reality and the best way to live.
  • Science is the study of the natural world through observation, experimentation, and hypothesis testing. It is related to philosophy because it is based on the search for knowledge and truth.
  • History is the study of the past. It is related to all other disciplines because it provides context for understanding the present and the future.