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Developing a conceptual framework for interdisciplinary communication, collaboration, and integration: A structured approach.

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Title: Developing a conceptual framework for interdisciplinary communication, collaboration, and integration: A structured approach.
Authors: Zhang, Jialin1 (AUTHOR) jialin.zhang@eawag.ch, Salomon, Hanna1,2 (AUTHOR) hanna.salomon@eawag.ch, Huber, Martin Nicola1,3 (AUTHOR) martin.huber3@bs.ch, Bugmann, Harald4 (AUTHOR) harald.bugmann@env.ethz.ch, Dölker, Julie Elisabet1,5 (AUTHOR) julie.doelker@eawag.ch, König, Louis4 (AUTHOR) louis.koenig@usys.ethz.ch, Krähenbühl, Jasmin1,2 (AUTHOR) jasmin.kraehenbuehl@eawag.ch, Lieberherr, Eva2 (AUTHOR) eva.lieberherr@usys.ethz.ch, Logar, Ivana1 (AUTHOR) ivana.logar@eawag.ch, McArdell, Brian6 (AUTHOR) brian.mcardell@wsl.ch, Molnar, Peter7 (AUTHOR) peter.molnar@ifu.baug.ethz.ch, Quatrini, Simone2 (AUTHOR) quatrinisim@gmail.com, Schick, Veronika2 (AUTHOR) veronika.schick@usys.ethz.ch, Schlunegger, Fritz8 (AUTHOR) fritz.schlunegger@unibe.ch, Schmidt, Chantal8 (AUTHOR) chantal.schmidt@unibe.ch, Zabel, Astrid5 (AUTHOR) astrid.zabel@unibe.ch, Hoffmann, Sabine1,9 (AUTHOR) sabine.hoffmann@eawag.ch
Source: AMBIO - A Journal of the Human Environment. Dec2025, Vol. 54 Issue 12, p2118-2134. 17p.
Subject Terms: *INTERDISCIPLINARY research, *ECOLOGICAL resilience, *SUSTAINABILITY, *APPLIED sciences, *ECOSYSTEMS, *CONCEPTUAL models, *INTERDISCIPLINARY approach to knowledge, *COOPERATION
Geographic Terms: ALPS, Swiss (Switzerland)
Abstract: Interdisciplinary research is essential to address the complex environmental challenges faced by social-ecological systems (SES). However, it is often hindered by difficulties in integrating diverse knowledge and perspectives. Conceptual Frameworks (CFs) can act as boundary objects, facilitating integration in contexts with incomplete knowledge, nonlinearity, and divergent interests. Yet, guidance on developing CFs remains limited. To address this gap, we develop a structured approach and apply it within a research project focused on enhancing the resilience of Swiss Alpine ecosystems. Our approach includes three phases: (1) defining boundary concepts, (2) developing a CF as a boundary object, and (3) using the CF as a boundary object. The resulting CF supports communication, collaboration, and integration across disciplines, advancing SES research that addresses ecological resilience and sustainability. Our approach can be used by other interdisciplinary teams aiming to develop adaptable CFs that facilitate knowledge integration across disciplines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Database: Academic Search Index
Description
Abstract:Interdisciplinary research is essential to address the complex environmental challenges faced by social-ecological systems (SES). However, it is often hindered by difficulties in integrating diverse knowledge and perspectives. Conceptual Frameworks (CFs) can act as boundary objects, facilitating integration in contexts with incomplete knowledge, nonlinearity, and divergent interests. Yet, guidance on developing CFs remains limited. To address this gap, we develop a structured approach and apply it within a research project focused on enhancing the resilience of Swiss Alpine ecosystems. Our approach includes three phases: (1) defining boundary concepts, (2) developing a CF as a boundary object, and (3) using the CF as a boundary object. The resulting CF supports communication, collaboration, and integration across disciplines, advancing SES research that addresses ecological resilience and sustainability. Our approach can be used by other interdisciplinary teams aiming to develop adaptable CFs that facilitate knowledge integration across disciplines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:00447447
DOI:10.1007/s13280-025-02210-z