The multidisciplinary approach is widespread in developing countries to solve problems. It represents a progressive scholarly method. The multidisciplinary approach signifies that knowledge of several disciplines is used for a given problem and complements each other in such a way that it is possible to draw clear conclusions without being characterised as isolated or partial.
A multidisciplinary approach is focused on redefining problems outside normal boundaries, supported by different approaches from various academic disciplines, and reaching solutions based on a new understanding of complex situations.
In the keynote address, the Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Prof. Shirantha Heenkenda emphasized the pivotal role of multidisciplinary research in advancing national development.
Prof. Heenkenda was the keynote speaker for the 2nd National Research Symposium on Social Sciences and Humanities (NRSSSH 2023), hosted by the University of Rajarata on October 31 under the theme “Promoting multidisciplinary research for national development.”
Diverse in its focus, the symposium featured multiple tracks, including Heritage Management, Environment Management, Technology, Innovation and Education, Communication and Mass Media, Governance and Development, Hospitality Management, Anthropology and Criminology. These tracks, collectively addressing the multifaceted challenges and opportunities of a rapidly evolving world, underscored the imperative for cross-disciplinary collaboration.
Comprehensive problem-solving
Prof. Heenkenda highlighted the numerous benefits of a multidisciplinary approach, drawing attention to its potential for comprehensive problem-solving, fostering innovation and creativity, and addressing complex, interconnected challenges. He underscored how this approach can enhance decision-making, promote research and knowledge creation, and deliver real-world solutions with personal and professional growth for persons.
“Many challenges faced by society, such as climate change, public health crises, or sustainable development, are multifaceted and interconnected. Addressing these challenges requires an understanding of their social, economic, environmental, and technological dimensions. The multidisciplinary approach enables the synthesis of knowledge from different disciplines, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis and effective solutions to complex problems,” he said.
Prof. Heenkenda illustrated the real-world application of multidisciplinary research across various fields. Healthcare, urban planning, architecture, environmental science, data science, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and product design and innovation were cited as examples where multidisciplinary collaboration has led to groundbreaking advancements.
“For instance, the treatment of complex diseases such as cancer requires not only a multidisciplinary team ranging from oncologists to pathologists but also comprehensive treatment plans. The successes we have achieved in the healthcare sector can largely be attributed to such multidisciplinary efforts.
Another area is Urban Planning and Architecture: Urban planners, architects, engineers, environmental scientists, sociologists, and economists work together to create sustainable and livable spaces. By incorporating various perspectives, they consider factors such as aesthetics, functionality, environmental impact, social dynamics, and infrastructure requirements.
An emerging field where a multidisciplinary approach can largely be seen is Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (AI): Data science and AI involve the integration of knowledge from computer science, mathematics, statistics, and domain-specific fields. Experts from these disciplines collaborate to develop advanced algorithms, predictive models, and data-driven insights. By combining expertise, they can extract valuable information from complex datasets and apply it to various domains, including healthcare, finance, marketing, and transportation.
Field of education
In the field of education, he highlighted the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in creating effective and engaging learning environments. It was also highlighted how the humanities and social sciences, through their rich blend of history, literature, philosophy, art, and linguistics, offer a broader understanding of human culture, expression, and thought. In the realm of social sciences, a multidisciplinary approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding of human behaviour, societal issues, and the critical examination of complex questions.
Prof. Heenkenda said that embracing multidisciplinary research is key to unlocking the potential to address complex challenges comprehensively and accelerating national development.
