Exploring collaborative research methodologies in the pursuit of sustainable futures.

Abstract

This chapter makes a distinction between multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary research. The former employs disciplinary experts working in parallel whereas the latter involves continuous dialogue and interaction between experts throughout the research process. It is argued that interdisciplinary research is vital in the pursuit of more sustainable futures. This type of research requires partnerships and collaboration between all stakeholders, drawing on, for example, local community members, governmental representatives, non governmental organizations and research communities to shape and inform the research. Experience from studies conducted at an irrigation project on the Keta Lagoon in Ghana and reports of other research in the Middle East are used to illustrate the discussion.