Setting parameters for developing undergraduate expertise in transdisciplinary problem solving at a university-wide scale: a case study

This paper describes the process and outcomes of deliberations by a working group tasked with setting parameters for implementing a university-wide undergraduate requirement in transdisciplinary problem-solving at The Australian National University (ANU). The group developed an ANU framework focused on six characteristics: change-oriented, systemic, context-based, pluralistic, interactive, and integrative. Challenges of implementation, such as course identification and coordination, are addressed, and a 'tag-and-points' system is proposed. Key lessons for other universities considering similar initiatives are summarized.

Gabriele Bammer, Chris A. Browne, Chris Ballard, Natalie Lloyd, Alison Kevan, Nicholas Neales, Terhi Nurmikko-Fuller, Sean Perera, Isha Singhal, Lorrae van Kerkhoff