Hey there! My name's Kevin Pilsbury, and this week's blog post deals with research skills and interdisciplinary problem solving. The first half of the topic is a major one, because research skills are a necessity for the interdisciplinary thinker. The second half is an approach to problem solving that you may not be used to yet, but as you progress through Cornerstone, you will further hone the skill of interdisciplinary problem solving. These two skills will prove invaluable to you for the remainder of your life. Last week, Byron challenged you to think critically, and showed you that critical thinking is a valuable skill to the interdisciplinarian. This week, we're going to build off of what Byron opened up for us.
For me, the issue of interdisciplinary problem solving is a major portion of my undergrad career. My areas of study are in Writing and Humanities, while my minor is in Education. In my Education classes especially, I find myself taking an interdisciplinary approach to creating lesson plans. I think this is unique because often times, teachers approach teaching a lesson from their subject area. Example being: a geometry teacher teaches like a geometry teacher thinks. However, if your students don't think in that same manner, your lesson is potentially lost on them. If you approach your lesson using a blend of multiple subjects, you will instead attract the attention of multiple students. This is just one example of how I use interdisciplinary problem solving in my, personal, undergraduate career.
Research skills come in all "shapes and sizes," as they say. Critical thinking, as mentioned before, is an important research skill, because it allows the researcher to challenge every 'fact' that they come across. Critical thinking allows researchers to evaluate and weigh the different sides of every argument they come across. Problem solving exists as another critical researching skill, because it allows the researcher to first identify a problem, then form a hypothesis as to how they might alleviate that problem. Then you have a basis for what you want to research. Problem solving requires new approaches to traditional problems, which is where taking an interdisciplinary approach comes in.
Like I mentioned above, taking an interdisciplinary approach is similar to using a "two-pronged" attack to solve a problem. Because you're not addressing it from one discipline's standpoint, you are using multiple discipline’s strengths and biases in order to come up with an unorthodox solution.
The next major research skill is the ability to analyze and synthesize the data that you acquire through the course of your research. Through synthesis and analysis, researchers are able to determine patterns in their data, reduce the amount of raw data they have, and determining the value of the data you have collected. The final major skill in research comes in the form of dissemination. After you determine your issue using problem solving and critical thinking, you begin your research. Once you have gathered your information, you use analysis and synthesis to process your information and pick out the useful parts. Finally, using dissemination, you summarize and explain all of your research. This is essentially where you present the fruits of your labor.
Taking all of this into consideration, answer the following questions (Remember, you don't have to answer ALL of them!):
• How do we use research in our everyday lives? In school? At work?
• Which specific skills are used when completing a research project?
• How might these skills be translated towards future employment?
• How might your ability to solve problems from an interdisciplinary perspective be valuable to a future employer? Current employer?
• What's the best researching tool you've found?
Leave your thoughts below! Have a great week!
-Kevin
ReplyDeleteI like your example of the geometry teacher and regards to their lesson plans and such. I would believe it to be beneficial for there to be a teacher who specializes in geometry. But it would be even better if the teacher had experience in another field. Perhaps then, the teacher would be better equipped to give examples that more students can understand.
In response to some of the questions that you asked:
Research is an essential tool in the lives of humans. Even in our everyday tasks, we take part in research. From mundane tasks to one which requires hours of focus and processing, research has become a natural tool that we use without even realizing it. Research is mostly related to school activities and work, but humans are curious and I know that I always prefer to have an answer over not having one when I have the option find out an answer. Literacy skills are very important when it comes to research. Someone needs to be able to read and write in order to convey results. Critical thinking and analyzing skills are also crucial because these prove processing skills that lead to innovative ideas, products, etc.
-DeAnna Powell
Scott Pollack
ReplyDeleteI like how you pointed out that interdisciplinary is a two pronged approach and involves some unorthodoxy. That is what draws me to interdisciplinary the most; the ability to attack a situation from various standpoints and to come to a unique conclusion.
How do we use research in our everyday lives? In school? At work?
• Which specific skills are used when completing a research project?
Conformity of ideas when in a group is of vital importance when conducting a research project. Various analysis' and research conduction is vital to coming to an end result.
• How might these skills be translated towards future employment?
Being able to utilize all types of research methods, study skills, and real life experience all translate into being a success in the workplace.
• How might your ability to solve problems from an interdisciplinary perspective be valuable to a future employer? Current employer?
I am constantly researching online at work and constantly tweaking and revising the way I search for results. One day I may feel one search engine is of most use, and the next day I get on the phone and use the networking approach. By networking, I am constantly opening doors that may be useful to me in my future employment.
• What's the best researching tool you've found?
The best researching tool I have found are case studies and books that involve a more specific focus than what one is looking for. What I mean by this that by using comprehensive methods, one can make sure their own research is narrowed down to a focus and concise.
I guess I'm researching all of the time. At home, I'm always interested in learning how to be a better parent. As my children continue to grow and develop, sometimes I'm not always prepared for the next challenge.. Reading books and magazine articles and talking with other parents- all give me new ideas and concepts that help me make informed parenting decisions.
ReplyDeleteAt work, I research competitors. I research market trends. I also research new marketing tools (e.g. social media). I research conference locations for our annual meeting (that's really fun research, because a site visit's always required!). I research why we lost a prospect or a client. Research is definitely an important part of my job!
Lisa Schmidt
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ReplyDeleteScott, I wasn't able to come up with what I think the best research tool would be. But you have a point in focusing on researching what would be under a specific/specialized discipline. One cannot look loosely at information. It is important to fully emerge yourself into a subject. Learning a discipline's theories and perspectives will allow you to understand the best way to incorporate it into your research.
ReplyDelete-DeAnna Powell
Deanna, I agree that research is something that we do without even realizing it everyday in our lives. Here's a funny example, actually:
ReplyDeleteI can't count the amount of times I've gone to Wikipedia to look something up, only to realize four hours later that I had been reading Wikipedia for four hours! :)
I also agree that it is important to delve deeply into your disciplines, because that makes it much easier when it comes time to 'weave' your disciplines together.
Scott, I think it's great that you use multiple research methods, especially networking! You're correct when you say that networking will benefit you later on.
ReplyDeleteI also agree that a conformity of ideas helps when working in groups. If you can't agree on a topic, how can you agree to work?
Lisa, see! Research is in everything we do, regardless of whether or not we 'think' we're doing research, we do it all the time. It is human nature!
ReplyDeleteHmm... I never really thought of networking as a way to research. But I suppose when I think about it, it makes sense. Some people that I have come across in life are very wise, and experienced. Things that they have to say may sometimes be more insightful than what you would read in an academic essay. Those who take the time to educate themselves will definitely want to be right when it comes to the things that they say, too.
ReplyDeleteDeAnna Powell
Can the Internet be a research tool? Or, are you looking for something more specific. I use the Internet all of the time; obviously, I search based on a particular topic and go from there...
ReplyDeleteI use publications (e.g. Education Week, District Administration) to research market trends. I also talk directly with clients (i.e focus groups) to conduct market research.
Lisa Schmidt
Deanna, I think that networking is a great way to 'research,' but I don't think it's necessarily a 'classic' research method. In example, I'm part of a network of progressively-minded people, and people in that network always share things that might be of interest to the rest of the group.
ReplyDeleteSo it's a good way to find different information that you might not encounter on your own.
Lisa, of course the internet is a great tool! Obviously, for social information, etc, it's probably the best source you can use in researching.
ReplyDeleteHowever, you need to be wary when using the internet for academic research, because not all sources, especially blogs, are credible.
Solving problems from an interdisciplinary perspective is a critical skill. Employers are looking for people who can assess a situation, seek multiple perspectives, gather more information if necessary, and identify key issues that need to be addressed. Additionally, they want employees that can find solutions to problems using creativity, reasoning and past experiences along with the information and resources available. These are considered transferable assets and are required to remain competitive in today's workforce.
ReplyDeleteLisa Schmidt
Lisa, that's a great point. Employers want employees that can tackle any issue from a variety of fronts.
ReplyDeleteAs we're reading a book in Capstone, we're learning that Creative-minded folk, or right-brained thinkers are the future of the workforce, and I think your post exemplifies that.
I conduct research all the time. Whether it's at work or home, I always find myself looking into a subject.
ReplyDeleteAt work when we get a new animal in the tank I want to learn all I can about it so I can better answer questions from guests, and further my knowledge on marine life. For example, about a month ago we got a leopard shark (the first) put into the tank. Not being accustomed to seeing that particular shark I didn't know anything about it, so I researched some information that I could incorporate into my backstage tour or dive briefing.
As for researching at home I am sure I am not the only one to research the heck out of any high priced item I buy. For instance, over the summer I was in the market for a new camera. After doing some research I determined that I wanted a DSLR camera. Little did I know that there are literally hundreds I could choose from. I spent at least 2 weeks comparing and researching different brands and models to find the right one for me.
I think having skills in research doesn't only help us academically, but also personally. I mean we don't get up one day and decide to buy a new car by driving to the nearest dealership. We research different models, prices, and extras. I think it is an important skill to have.
Kylee Jones
Kevin you asked "What's the best researching tool you've found?"
ReplyDeleteI have to say that it varies to the circumstance. In my psychology classes being able to access a reliable database (like the UCF one) is very valuable. It has reliable articles from scientific journals and books. If I am looking up information on a new marine animal that has been added to the tank at work I might look it up online in an encyclopedia, or I might even do a Google search. I could even go talk to the biologist to gain some information.
I don't really think there is one particular "best" tool for researching, it really depends on the situation. In our technology driven world there are probably more resources then we could ever access.
Kylee Jones
Kylee, you're correct to state that we are constantly researching, even if it's not for academic reasons. And I also think it's smart to use multiple sources, like you stated, for conducting research.
ReplyDeleteThe best researching tool I've found are the databases which really equate to scholarly journals. You can cover a lot of ground quickly, obtain information over a time continuum seeing the latest ideas on a subject or particular topic and backtrack. This is important because you can see where "consensus" kicks in and often discover that "x" is really unfounded and has gained acceptance simply by being repeated and reiterated. Departure from critical thinking can be seen, glaringly on occasion...then you find yourself going against the "grain." Assumptions as well, which are often pronounced, need to be countered as well. The UCF library has a substantial selection of E-books which I've found helpful as well. When looking at generic internet sources we have to be on the look out for bias. I did a project for Middle East History on water issues so you can imagine the plethora of viewpoints, then of course you have the old liberal versus conservative binary occluding EVERY domestic issue we may want to consider. False premises, circular logic, marxist, feminist, queer, post-colonial, et al. So, to sum up, research really is a trip.
ReplyDeleteJonathan Andew Harris
Kevin you asked "How might your ability to solve problems from an interdisciplinary perspective be valuable to a future employer? Current employer?"
ReplyDeleteI think being able to see a problem from different perspectives will not only benefit us academically but also professionally. I can attest to this in my current position as Dive Master at the Seas. In my role I have to be a heavily certified diver, being trained in CPR, the defibrillator, and rescue. These are just the starting qualifications for the position, but if you have a background in communication, biology, or anything else relating the marine world it puts you ahead of other applicants. Being in the position now for 4 years I can safely say that just having a Dive Master certification will not prepare you for the job. You need to not only be able to handle guests, but to entertain them and educate them while keeping them safe.
Kylee Jones
We research everyday of our lives, we may not think of it as researching because we are not tediously combing through books at the library, but when we look online for the fastest way to a restaurant, or look up movie times. In school we do almost nothing but research, studying is essential research. We look up meanings, read article. In work it can be scientific research that result in groundbreaking meaning,it can be looking up the stock market or the price of a meetings catering. Research is actively looking for unknown information, we do that every single time.
ReplyDeleteWhile looking at interdisciplinary problem solving, the idea of combinations come to mind. It involves different approaches to common and a diversity of ideas. For example, as explained in the blog, interdisciplinary problem solving can be utilized in the areas of writing and humanities as well as education. The idea is that one learns and teaches with the same concept.Example being "a geometry teacher teaches like a geometry teacher thinks. However, if your students don't think in that same manner, your lesson is potentially lost on them." Interdisciplinary problem solving is the link to the ideas shared by researches as well as teachers.
ReplyDeleteGeorges Desliens
Research as well as answers come in all shapes and sizes.It is important to take both sides of any issue.Tools such as Analysis and critical thinking can both be vital to good research.The reason for this is That analysis of documents pull out the main idea as well as relevant facts from the source. With this information opinions can be formed and positions can be taken to reach a consensus.
ReplyDeleteGeorges Desliens
The question is How do we use research in our everyday lives? In school? At work? It is hard to find out hard and definite way to find just one answer. There are often many answers to one question. There may be different views presented when thinking critically thinking about different scenarios. Different answers may present themselves when dealing with different settings. For example, a comfortable setting such as home will present a different scenario as a professional setting such as a work environment.
ReplyDeleteGeorges Desliens
Hi Kevin,
ReplyDeleteI liked the example of the geometry teacher. It's so true that we all think differently. The key for the geometry teacher is not simply to deliver the lesson, but to deliver it in such a way that the students absorb the material. The students likely won't think like the geometry teacher since much of the material is so new to the student, so the teacher has to take a step back and consider the overall objective. The ability to develop unorthodox solutions or approaches is what makes a teacher highly effective, and I believe it takes an interdisciplinary approach to develop those unorthodox solutions.
Just as the geometry teacher has to learn to not think like a geometry teaches when developing and delivering a lesson plan, we sometimes have to take a step back and consider our overall objective when solving problems. By conditioning ourselves to approach problems without the hindrance of "blinders" in place due to a single discipline approach we become a versatile asset for our employer. At the end of the day, the name of the game is solving problems for our employer. It might be how to generate sales, improve efficiency, reduce headcount while not compromising productivity, or how to reach students who are not responding. But ultimately it's an exercise in solving problems, not an exercise in applying a single technique or single discipline and trying to wedge it into place. The successful companies realize the value of approaching issues from creative perspectives, and I think they will value one with an interdisciplinary core.
I don't know that I've found a single tool that I would say is the best for researching. I would say it depends on the issue at hand. In general I would say the best type of tools are ones that provide a single point of contact for a diverse source of relevant information. That could be a search engine like Google, Wikipedia, Lexis-Nexis, etc. Again, depends on my task. If I need to spend several hours fishing for information, I am less likely to continue the search or be as diverse as I would like to be. If I have to hit just a few portals to gain access to a diverse pool of information I am more likely to be thorough and step outside of my box.
-William Powell
@Georges,
ReplyDeleteI like that you said answers, as well as research, comes in all shapes and sizes. I like to think that as the interdisciplinary side of us prepares us to evaluate alternate methods or sources for research, it also prepares us for answers or solutions that may either be unexpected or even uncomfortable.
There are times when I come to a solution that just doesn't "feel" right before I implement it. Sometimes I have to remind myself that solutions come in all shapes and sizes just as my research does.
-William Powell
@Kylee,
ReplyDeleteWhen you describe the credentials needed in your job it sounds so overwhelming!
I think we can discuss how we think an interdisciplinary approach may benefit a current/future employer, but I think your post sheds light on a different perspective. It would seem that some employers now demand an interdisciplinary employee, even though the employer may not ever use the word "interdisciplinary" to describe when they are looking for. Based on what you posted, that's how your employer seems to me.
I would say interdisciplinary qualities are a "must have" by employers instead of a "nice to have" even though they may label it using vocabulary other than interdisciplinary.
-William Powell
There are specific skills that are used to complete a research project. First the problem must be identified then hypothesis formed on how to solve it. Throughout the research process data must be critically reviewed and analyzed--keeping what is valid and discarding the rest. Patterns become visible and must be assembled, or "connecting the dots." Synthesis and integration will provide the evidence to accept or reject the hypothesis then the results are disseminated.
ReplyDeleteJonathan Harris
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ReplyDeleteOne source of research we use in our everyday lives, education, and work environments is the informal survey. Whether we're conscious of it or not we're conducting this research. We don't necessarily make a formal project out it and keep data but we mentally calculate it. It can be simple, for example, how are people dressed? Are they dressed casually, sloppy, or are they wearing formal business attire. Then we can apply an age variable...is there a correlation in age and the various modes of dressing,...then gender...etc. Or who's texting and walking and knocking people off the side walk. This can go in a hundred different directions but I think we're always analyzing what is in or happening in our immediate environment.
ReplyDeleteJonathan Harris
A little late, but here we go...
ReplyDeleteWe use cognitive research everyday through applying our obtained knowledge to handle problems or answer questions. Being able to "put out a fire" is based upon aquired intelect and the ability to apply it in different forms.
In completing a research project, we need to be able to FOCUS on a particular subject, INTERPRET the information we find, ANALYZE the possible answers, and EXPLAIN our findings in detail.
Any job requires you to focus, analyze, interpret, and explain. It is the basis of a successful person.
Being interdisciplinary can be very beneficial because you are able to offer many more possible solutions that what is right in front of you. In my current job, I have to be an analyst, salesperson, and manager. Being able to do all these things allows me to see the operations from several angles, and make the best decision possible.
The best research tool out there is the internet. While you must be able to seperate fact and fiction, the information that can be found on the internet is far more vast than any library.