Synopsis

Interdisciplinary collaboration aims to solve problems whose solutions are beyond the scope of a single discipline. Such collaborations require intensive listening, empathy, and clear language without abstractions. Collaborative teamwork requires mutual acceptance despite different views and disciplinary methodologies, openness to other’s views, sharing of ideas, and mutual trust. The phase model of Tuckmann describes typical development of interdisciplinary teams. Conflicts are normal and need to be dealt with before they eventually reach a destructive level.