In Spite of Our 'Own' Best Interests: Lessons from an Interdisciplinary Project on Urban Sustainability

Y

14

Interdisciplinary Approach; Observation; Interviews; Urban Areas; Qualitative Research; Sustainability; Academic Discourse; Cooperation; Teamwork; Motivation; College Faculty; Foreign Countries; Futures (of Society); Water; Biodiversity; Building Design; Organizational Climate; Innovation; Wastes; Graduate Students; Student Research; Journal Articles; Periodicals; Language Role; Writing for Publication; Cultural Differences; Decision Making; Geography; Expectation; Time Management

10.1080/03098265.2014.956296

0309-8265

To contribute effectively to academic discourse on urban sustainability, disciplines need to think outside their silos and work together more collaboratively. Although straightforward to posit in theory, the practical realities of bringing together people with different worldviews, languages and skills can be frustrating and lead to loss of motivation. This paper presents the findings from a qualitative study of interdisciplinary team working on an urban sustainability project. Through analysis of archival materials, observations and interviews, a major theme of motivation was uncovered and explored. We conclude with some suggestions for working more effectively interdisciplinary, urban sustainability projects.

As Provided

56

2015

EJ1065171