Integration

Figure. A framework for analysing integration.   Source: van Kerkhoff (2005)

Integrated research can be considered an attempt to bring together different elements in a holistic way to better understand the entirety. In doing so, integrated research is able to cross conventional boundaries that exist within and around science.

For the purposes of explanation, science is conducted by formal academic disciplined-based institutions while research is the open-ended, systematic process of enquiry.

Integrated research can be described as:

• Integration of sciences to overcome the barriers within sciences i.e., multi-disciplinary, interdisciplinary or transdisciplinary. Note that difficulties still exist within these disciplines in terms of differences in scientific agency approaches and styles of research

and/or

• Integration with non-scientific institutions i.e. large scale groups of organisations, such as law, government, industry, and community. These institutions are recognised as bounded by formal or informal rules and conventions. Here, researchers work with policy-makers, community groups, business or industry in the design, conduct and application of research.

A framework for analysing integration and ways to assess the problems, in terms of what is to be integrated and how integration is to occur, is depicted in Figure A.

The benefits of an integrated approach can be that the boundaries between science and society become more permeable.  The inclusion of competent research outside academia increases the knowledge informing the research problem. Thus transdisciplinary approaches can be created from various domains interests and demands, and from a diversity of intellectual and social backgrounds, thereby increasing the heterogeneity, organisational diversity, social accountability and reflexivity.  

van Kerkhoff, L. (2005). Integrated research: concepts of connection in environmental science and policy. Environmental Science & Policy 8, 452–463.