From Multidisciplinary to Transdisciplinary: A Study of the Developmental Logics and Practical Paths of Disciplinary Intersection

Abstract

There are various categorization systems and developmental logics regarding disciplinary intersection, ranging from multidisciplinary to transdisciplinary. At the theoretical level, this study defined disciplinary intersection in the Chinese context from the perspective of disciplinary boundaries. It contributed to distinguishing the varying levels of integration among multidisciplinary, cross-disciplinary, interdisciplinary, and transdisciplinary studies. At the practical level, taking Tongji University as a case study, this study analyzed the practical path of promoting disciplinary intersection and complementary strengths among 46 disciplines across the university through a disciplinary cluster approach. The analysis was conducted from three perspectives, including disciplinary planning, institutional optimization, and sustainable development. The study revealed that disciplinary clusters are currently evolving between the interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary stages, serving as an effective pathway for disciplinary intersection. The clusters have established a sustainable cyclical framework that integrates top-down guidance with bottom-up exploration to promote disciplinary intersection and interdisciplinary integration.

Keywords

disciplinary intersection / interdisciplinary studies / disciplinary boundaries / diciplinary clusters

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Higher Education Press