Integration Theory in Interdisciplinary Studies

Integration Theory, as stated in Repko's Introduction to interdisciplinary studies, is: " the cognitive process of critically evaluating disciplinary insights and creating common ground among them to construct a more comprehensive understanding. The new understanding is the product or result of the integrative process."

In contrast to Complexity theory, which takes in account of each discipline and connects them to work together and interact, Integration Theory is the theory that these disciplines are needed to blend together to create a new, and better understanding of a phenomena. For example, I am studying TESOL to be able to teach English to foreign speakers but I also knew it was necessary to learn a foreign language as well, to develop the contrasting skills needed to learn and teach a language. These concepts work together to form new skills that I will be able to use in the future.

Integrationist Interdisciplinarians are the people who work in interdisciplinary fields and believe that the Integration Theory is the key characteristic in interdisciplinary work. The goal of interdisciplinary is to fully integrate and

(in reference to previous chapters) create a fruit smoothie with multiple disciplines to create a new one, where each discipline is equally cooperative and necessary.

Repko, Allen F.; Szostak, Richard (Rick); Buchberger, Michelle Phillips (2013-05-20). Introduction to Interdisciplinary Studies (p. 133). SAGE Publications. Kindle Edition.