Friday, November 11

Interdisciplinary Racial Literacy in the Era of CRT Mis/disinformation, The role of interdisciplinary graduate education in higher education: IGEPS & individualized PhD program (iPhD), Towards more inclusive and global investigative fields: An analysis of collaborative investigative journalism across the U.S.-Mexico border.

Theme: The Future of Universities and the Role of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Knowledge-Making

Presented by: Shelli Fowler,  Karen DePauw

Format:  Panel

Abstract: This presentation focuses on the challenges and opportunities involved in creating an interdisciplinary racial literacy course in an era fueled by fear, partisan divides, and widespread mis/disinformation about critical race theory. It will discuss strategies for shifting our pedagogical praxis to address (and disrupt) an increasingly vocal public censure and efforts to control how, and if, topics on race are explored in our institutional settings.

The role of interdisciplinary graduate education in higher education: IGEPS & individualized PhD program (iPhD)

Theme:  The Future of Universities and the Role of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Knowledge-Making

Presented by:  Karen P. DePauw,  Shelli B. Fowler

Format: Panel

Abstract:  The Interdisciplinary Graduate Education Program (IGEPs) and the individualized Interdisciplinary PhD (iPhd) program at Virginia Tech provide the foundation to strengthen a community of faculty, graduate students and the undergraduate with whom they work addressing the wicked problems of today's society and tomorrow's future.

Towards a truly holistic framing of value

Theme:  Spaces and Places: Saving the Planet and its Inhabitants

Presented by:  Jeff Baldwin

Format:  Workshop

Abstract: Humanity’s degradation of our biosphere now poses an existential threat. This workshop introduces a novel biospheric framing of mutualistic value production and investment in our shared biospheric spaces. We look at how life has enriched our world. Participants will then workshop how to apply this framework to their own work.

Racial disparities in the use of prosecutorial discretion

Theme:  Being in the Room Where It Happens: Inter/Diversities, Equity, and Inclusion

Presented by:  Stacey Bosick

Format: Paper

Abstract:  Prosecutors’ ability to exercise a wide degree of discretion has the potential to contribute to equitable—or inequitable—outcomes for defendants in the United States criminal justice system. This study explores the presence and extent of racial and ethnic differences in case outcomes within the Denver District Attorney’s Office.

Beyond Interdisciplinarity: A Book Conversation with Julie Thompson Klein

Theme:  The Future of Universities and the Role of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Knowledge-Making

Presented by:  Michael O'Rourke,  Julie Thompson Klein; Jennifer Dellner; Machiel Keestra; Anne Heberger Marino, Kirsi-Mari Cheas

Format:  Round Table or Panel Discussion

Abstract:  In this session, leading scholars of crossdisciplinary research and practice will engage in a moderated conversation with Dr. Julie Thompson Klein about lessons from her new book, Beyond Interdisciplinarity: Boundary Work, Communication, and Collaboration (Oxford University Press, 2021)

Sonoma State’s Building Resilience Series: Communication for Climate Action

Theme:  The Future of Universities and the Role of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Knowledge-Making

Presented by:  Claudia Luke, Kerry Wininger, Kristin Cushman

Format:  Round Table or Panel Discussion

Abstract:  Sonoma State University’s (SSU) Center for Environmental Inquiry piloted a virtual monthly public lunch series during the 2021-22 academic year focused on engaging faculty and administrative experts across campus in regional climate challenges. We will discuss how existing lecture series can be used to enhance campus-community partnership.

Turning Education into Climate Action

Theme:  The Future of Universities and the Role of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Knowledge-Making

Presented by:  Christopher Halle, Claudia Luke, Kerry Wininger, Andy Rodgers

Format:  Round Table or Panel Discussion

Abstract: Sonoma State University’s Center for Environmental Inquiry is piloting a series of interdisciplinary “education-into-action” collaboratives. These collaborations link faculty-student research teams and community leaders to jointly address pressing environmental issues. We will give an overview of two of these collaboratives, focusing on collaborative setup and lessons learned.

Building an International Partnership from the Ground Up: A Story About Global Online Learning Exchange in Action

Theme:  The Tipping Point: How Do We Really Change the World and How Will We Know?

Presented by:  Heidi Upton, Paul Christensen

Format:  Workshop

Abstract:  Using the common theme of Climate Change as an enabling structure, two educators from universities in N.Y.C., U.S., and Goettingen, Germany report on their process in building an international partnership in their two courses, in an initiative that makes global education equitable to all.

Documenting Pedagogy: Teaching Interdisciplinarity through Farmers Markets

Theme:  Spaces and Places: Saving the Planet and its Inhabitants

Presented by:  Eddie Boucher, Seven Mattes, Lauren Munoz, Jorhie Beadle, Amina Darabie, Ari Andres

Format:  Round Table or Panel Discussion

Abstract:  This panel demonstrates the strength and efficacy of interdisciplinary work and training - capturing a multidimensional understanding of farmers markets in the Lansing area while training the next generation of interdisciplinary scholars. We intend to present our findings as a documentary film to be shared within and beyond our community, strengthening the community from which it arose.

The Intersection of Physical and Intellectual Space to Advance Transdisciplinary Thinking through SCALE-UP Design

Theme:  The Future of Universities and the Role of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Knowledge-Making

Presented by:  Robin Panneton

Format:  Round Table or Panel Discussion

Abstract:  This presentation will describe the value of the SCALE-UP classroom as a laboratory for active learning. Such spaces lend themselves to fully interactive, integrated approaches to domain knowledge and understanding. This requires that faculty be willing to give up the "lecture"-dominant style of teaching, and to think of creative ways to bring individuals with differing levels of expertise together in a fun, non-judgmental experience.

Learning Philosophies as Reflective, Integrative Practice

Theme:  The Future of Universities and the Role of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Knowledge-Making

Presented by:  Daryl Lee

Format:  Paper, 15 minutes

Abstract:  The “learning philosophy” derives from a genre familiar to educators: the teaching philosophy. While sharing a similar reflective purpose, learning philosophies re-center the classroom around student agency. I will share practices for engaging students with their learning philosophies that can cultivate learner-centered agency and foster integrative learning.

Porgy and Bess: Musical Praxis and Traditional Ecological Knowledge

Theme:  Spaces and Places: Saving the Planet and its Inhabitants

Presented by:  Sharon Fuller

Format:  Round Table, 30 minutes

Abstract:  In this session we will discuss the integration of music and ecology as an interdisciplinary research approach to understanding the way people relate to the land and adapt to ecological challenges. Drawing on Gershwin’s opera we will explore how the music and movement of the Gullah people in a coastal fishing community in South Carolina exemplified the intimate spatial knowledge that was integral to adaptive strategies to the wicked problem of food security.

Educating for Deliberative Democracy: Developing Skills for Resiliency and Stewardship Through Interdisciplinary Thinking

Theme:  Spaces and Places: Saving the Planet and its Inhabitants

Presented by:  Rhonda Davis

Format:  Round Table, 30 minutes

Abstract:  This panel discussion focuses on interdisciplinary research and thinking as a way to educate for a more deliberative democracy that enhances our capacity for resiliency and stewardship in an age of growing instability and uncertainty. It includes discussion of collaboration, relational thinking, and self-reflection-as-citizen as a skill set.

Resources:

https://research.vu.nl/ws/portalfiles/portal/1538054/Worldviews.pdf

Deliberative Pedagogy:Teaching and Learning for Democratic Engagement text:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1611862493/ref=cm_sw_r_api_i_7PQ839QVK3KVH7QGBD03_0_nodl

Introduction to Interdisciplinary Studies text:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1544379404/ref=cm_sw_r_api_i_5X7NKCA5P87FXYV1377R_0_nodl

Awaken 101:Discovering Meaning and Purpose in Uncertain Times
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1476682313/ref=cm_sw_r_api_i_HPDQTP9F0XGCHE4BK2CK_0_nodl

Appalshop (Appalachian Flood Support):
https://appalshop.org

Pedagogical Pigs: Boundary Crossing at the Student Organic Farm

Theme:  The Future of Universities and the Role of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Knowledge-Making

Presented by:  Seven Mattes,  Jorhie Beadle

Format:  Paper, 15 minutes

Abstract:  This presentation delineates the interdisciplinary structure, team and lessons that led the students of an experiential multispecies classroom regarding pig production to not only learn the importance of boundary crossing when working with polarized topics, but to employ it in multiple aspects of their lives.

Science Preacher Smites Anti-Science!: Can humor, music and secular preaching galvanize the choir and save the planet from misinformation?

Theme:  Spaces and Places: Saving the Planet and its Inhabitants

Presented by:  Chris Qualls

Format:  Creative Showcase, 30 minutes

Abstract:  Science Preacher is here to spread the good word of science… and strike down the Wicked Problems of Misinformation and Anti-Science. Through an interdisciplinary blend of humor, science-evangelism and music, Science Preacher will rouse the heart and cast out misinformation from the brain! Will you hear him testify?

Tackling wicked problems through structured interdisciplinary team research: the Amsterdam Institute for Interdisciplinary Studies approach

Theme:  The Future of Universities and the Role of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Knowledge-Making

Presented by:  Machiel Keestra

Format:  Paper

Abstract:  With 25 years of experience, we developed our model of interdisciplinary research, meant to guide and educate teams of disciplinary specialists. It is grounded in an explicit pluralist philosophy of science, acknowledging conceptual, theoretical and methodological pluralisms in disciplines. Aligned with that, we present a toolbox of interdisciplinary integration techniques.

How to build super divers teams to enhance self-directed learning and problem solving in transdisciplinary higher education

Theme:  Being in the Room Where It Happens: Inter/Diversities, Equity, and Inclusion

Presented by:  Isabelle Vandevyvere

Format:  Workshop, 60 minutes

Abstract:  This workshop is about transdisciplinary learning and how your learning style, cognitive style and personality can enhance the learning experience. You will take part as a participatory learner and will explore that interdisciplinarity is not the only criteria to build a high performing team.

Creating Cultures of Trust with Interdisciplinary Leadership

Theme:  The Future of Universities and the Role of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Knowledge-Making

Presented by:  Candace Bloomquist

Format:  Creative Activity, 60 minutes

Abstract:  Siloed, centralized efforts do not create the innovative solutions that will address the wicked problems that the changing global arena faces today. The need for coordination across disciplines to produce better solutions to socially relevant problems is no more evident than in higher education. We need spaces within higher education that have both a strong collective identity and the means for diverse individual identities to flourish and contribute. Cultures of trust are such spaces that have the resources, routines, and gestures that create order without control and have that character of commitment and order that allows people to trust each other enough to work together. However, there is a critical need to identify social innovations that will help create those spaces, which in turn will help people choose to interact across disciplines. The intent of this creative activity is to develop a poem that can be used to communicate how cultures of trust can be created by using interdisciplinary leadership as a social innovation within higher education. Poetry can help us pay a different kind of attention and can act as a reminder to help us get back on track or embark on a different journey. As a form of poetic transcription, participants in this activity will engage in a relaxed dialogue about what it means to create

STEM at a tipping point

Theme:  Being in the Room Where It Happens: Inter/Diversities, Equity, and Inclusion

Presented by:  Brigitte Lahme, Ben Ford, Aris Winger, Rochelle Gutierrez, Matty Mookerjee, Ronimar Lopez-Bazan

Format:  Panel, 60 minutes

Abstract:  Participants will explore a pathway that guides STEM departments in creating conditions that promote a sense of belonging and ownership for Latinx students. Participants will hear from Sonoma State students, faculty, and administrators who have been engaged in department-wide efforts to embrace the “Serving” in our Hispanic Serving Institution designation.

Approaching Death and Disability Interdisciplinarily: Understanding and Commemorating the Cemetery at the Sonoma Developmental Center

Theme:  The Future of Universities and the Role of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Knowledge-Making

Presented by:  Benjamin Smith,  Alexis Boutin

Format:  Paper, 15 minutes

Abstract:  This paper reports on an interdisciplinary project that aims to understand the cemetery at the Sonoma Developmental Center as a cultural resource. As a site of 1400+ unmarked burials of persons with disabilities (from the 1890s onward), it invites bioarchaeological and cultural/historical concerns about their care and memory.

Interdisciplinary Studies Core Competencies and Industry Alignment

Theme:  The Future of Universities and the Role of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Knowledge-Making

Presented by:  Sharon Woodill,  Devon Cadwell Bazata

Format:  Paper, 15 minutes

Abstract:  An overview of an ongoing research project that explores teaching and assessing the Interdisciplinary Studies (IDS) competencies: perspective-taking, critical thinking, and integration. Resulting insights will inform initiatives to understand and align teaching and assessment of the IDS cognitive toolkit with in-demand competencies identified by industry hiring professionals.

Enhancing interdisciplinary thinking in undergraduate students through a competency based approach

Theme:  The Future of Universities and the Role of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Knowledge-Making

Presented by:  Craig Pepin,  Cyndi Brandenburg, Aziz Fatnassi, Mike Kelly

Format:  Creative Showcase, 30 minutes

Abstract:  Designating Integrative Thinking as a competency in a CBE approach can give students more agency and enhance development of the skill beyond ID courses. We’ll talk about how Champlain College’s Degree Design Lab uses this approach - especially portfolio demonstrations - for development and assessment.

Solution Room

Theme:  The Future of Universities and the Role of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Knowledge-Making

Presented by:  Alison Ruth Holmes

Format:  Solution Room, 30 minutes

Abstract:  This session will introduce CSUGlobal, a new online journal, to its constituent communities and interested parties. Designed to harness the power of the California State system (the largest in the country with over 55,000 faculty and staff and 485,000 students spread across 23 campuses) CSUGlobal will build the profile of a Global California while showcasing the system's interdisciplinary and international expertise. The goal is to analyze and promote debate, foster interdisciplinary scholarship, and promote all aspects of global learning and through the publication of content authored by CSU faculty, students, and staff.

Interdisciplinarities of Wonder: Science-Humanities Integration and the Future of Universities

Theme:  The Future of Universities and the Role of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Knowledge-Making

Presented by:  Ellen Moll,  Stephen Thomas

Format:  Paper, 15 minutes

Abstract:  This presentation theorizes how humanities-science interdisciplinarities can foster epistemologies of wonder that help sustain human beings and intellectual communities in wickedly challenging times. We examine specific examples of institutional and intellectual practices that promote community, hope, and agency in addressing key crises in higher education.

Reflections on convergence with implications for science policy and crossdisciplinarity

Theme:  The Future of Universities and the Role of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Knowledge-Making

Presented by:  Julie Mennes,  Julie Thompson Klein, Michael O'Rourke, Bethany Laursen

Format:  Panel, 60 minutes

Abstract:  This virtual panel engages in critical reflection on connotations of the current concept of convergence. We provide an overview of its meanings in specific contexts of (i) policy making and (ii) scientific research plus, more generally, (iii) insights from studies of interdisciplinarity as well as complementarities and tensions among them.

Engaging with Diversity to Contribute to Solution: The Social Entrepreneurship Approach

Theme:  The Tipping Point: How Do We Really Change the World and How Will We Know?

Presented by:  Nadiya Parekh

Format:  Solution Room, 30 minutes

Abstract:  Social entrepreneurship is an emerging topic in business that encourages interdisciplinary thinking and blended value creation to contribute to solutions. The presentation is a call to academic and community partners to join this initiative.

Leadership in anti-trafficking: a systems approach to a wicked problem

Theme:  The Tipping Point: How Do We Really Change the World and How Will We Know?

Presented by:  Cara Aghajanian

Format:  Paper, 15 minutes

Abstract:  Human trafficking is a multidimensional issue that requires more than a legal or law enforcement to combat it. From international policy to first responders and volunteer groups there are a myriad of efforts than can unite to break the cycle of trafficking

Addressing Wicked Socio/Cultural Access Problems through Virtual Conference Planning: Lessons from the 2021 AIS Conference Planning Team

Theme:  The Future of Universities and the Role of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Knowledge-Making

Presented by:  Mike Cena, Cynthia Kimball Davis, Brandon Springer

Format:  Workshop

Abstract:  We collided with a wicked problem! Join us in learning the “ins and outs” of virtual conference planning as we examine the issues, challenges, and serendipities of moving from a traditional on-site conference to a virtual platform hosting Native American panels, animal-companion networking, and creative showcases.

Integrating the UN SDGs into Developmental Psychology

Theme:  The Future of Universities and the Role of Inter- and Transdisciplinary Knowledge-Making

Presented by:  Megan McIlreavy

Format:  Poster, 15 minutes

Abstract:  This poster presentation presents piloted work in aligning the UN SDGs with course content provided within a traditional Developmental Psychology course. By bringing these two areas together, students are provided with an important context and a novel perspective for evaluating and understanding sustainable development issues across the human lifespan.