Study protocol Version 1.0 - October 24th, 2022: "Integration of data in inter and transdisciplinary research: an exploratory study"

 

This file presents the protocol for a study called "Integration of data in inter and transdisciplinary research: an exploratory study." This protocol was approved by the Institutional Review Board of the Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM), Antwerp, Belgium on 24 October 2022.  

Introduction: This study is focused on the process of interdisciplinary learning. As a multidimensional construction, interdisciplinary learning is built on the basis of cognitive, emotional, and interactional processes (Boix Mansilla et al., 2015). In this case, we will use the Model of Interdisciplinary Learning (Boix Mansilla, 2017) to study four processes typically involved in intern and transdisciplinary research, specifically:

• Establishing purpose

• Disciplinary exchange

• Leveraging integration

• Critical thinking

Aims: With this study, we propose to a) explore the knowledge and expertise existing at ITM in terms of

inter- and transdisciplinary, and b) strengthen our capacity to address scientific (conceptual, operational, methodological, technical and ethical) challenges derived from these types of research.

Methodology:  We will conduct a rapid ethnographic assessment (REA) for the exploratory phase of this study (October 2022 – March 2023). REA is a qualitative research method that emphasizes “rapid collection and dissemination of information useful for key decision making” (Sangaramoorthy & Kroeger, 2020). This exploratory phase will be focused on projects developed within or with participation of the Socio Ecological Health Research Unit (SEHR), previous Medical Anthropological Unit, at ITM.