1. Interdisciplinary Work
Challenges of
Interdisciplinary Work
Friday, July 14, 2006

2. If only he had WAS*IS…

3. Think about what you’re trying to say…

4. A slight chance of rain showers between 9pm and 3am, then a chance of rain and snow showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 32. East wind 7 to 10 mph becoming north between 15 and 18 mph. Winds could gust as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

5. A mix of clouds and sun with the chance of an isolated thunderstorm in the afternoon. High 89F. Winds SSE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%.

6. Be sure others know what you are saying …

7. What do these mean to you?
CDC
SPC
NRC
NPR
AMS
WDYUSMA
value
vulnerability
risk
mental models
stakeholders
optimize
decision support system

8. Some things to keep in mind …

9. Assumptions – I don’t know what you know and/or what you think
Clarity – No jargon!
Culture – We’re not all from the same place, geographically and academically
Bravery – There are no stupid questions
Patience – There are no stupid questions

10. Interdisciplinary challenges
Single researcher works on problems that span multiple disciplines
Multiple researchers from different disciplines work together on a project of common interest
Individuals with enough expertise in each area, at least to understand fully, collaborate.

11. Break-out group discussion
Do you agree with these statements? How can WAS*IS address these statements?
Interdisciplinary nature often used as an excuse for sloppy research
All parties in the collaboration must gain – one side should not just provide a service to another
Personalities are important. One should collaborate with people and not on projects. Start with the relationships and find a reason to collaborate with people you get on with