This week we will be looking at the concept of integration.
Integration to me is a uniting of interests or ideas in a common initiative. Integration opens the doors of perspective. Integration is more than just simply combining things or notions together to see what happens, it’s the inspiration and motivation to merge questions, thoughts, and concepts to challenge preconceived ideas that change ones concepts and philosophy. An example is the degree we are all studying, Interdisciplinary Studies. We are brining together our own unique interests and talents to create a course study that challenges and ignites our curiosity.
Integration as a professional is one of the keys to success. You have to be the wearer of many hats to be successful. Understanding what is going on around you and being able to create a concept of comprehension to successfully move forward is a proficiency that is sometimes challenging to grasp. Integration is also about being able to see the big picture, to have the wherewithal to ask questions, and to challenge those around them.
Being able to bring people together, combining thoughts, breaking down walls, driving results, and effectively communicating ideas is what makes a leader.
Before you get started with the discussion, click on the below link. It will bring up a funny and different way to think about of integration:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PyUNRWJg0P8&feature=related
Now that you have gotten a different and humorous perspective about integration, answer the following questions:
What is integration to you?
How is integration critical as a professional?
In combing your three areas of study, how will it assist you in the future?
Please remember to sign your full name and to post you responses as a comment to this post.
Kevin Edmondson
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In regards to interdisciplinary thinking, integration is a means to the end of an interdisciplinary problem, but it is not the end in itself. The integrative portion of the interdisciplinary research process blends the naming or categorizing the relevant disciplinary insights into the problem.
ReplyDeleteTo be an effective professional in today’s rapidly changing and diverse environment, it is fundamental to integrate your skills beyond the scope of your own responsibilities. A professional must be able to integrate their skills and the skills of others and make them work for the greater benefit of the team. The portion of the old saying “jack of all trades” is a concept that is proven in today’s demanding professional world.
Although I am retired after a military career of 22.5 years and I do not plan on reentering the workforce, my disciplines of Business, Public Administration, and Interpersonal/Organizational Communication will assist me while I am the treasurer for my friends’ local political campaign. In my position, I am required to meet his constituents at campaign events; therefore, I’m putting my communications knowledge to work.
Linda Diggs
That show looks pretty hilarious!
ReplyDeleteIntegration to me is a blending of disciplines or ideas in search of new insights. Regardless what type of job a professional conducts, the knowledge and ability to integrate concepts is necessary to excel in the workplace. No one wants to be a one-trick pony. Having knowledge and even just interest in multiple disciplines helps to eliminate one-track thinking. Therefore, integration is a key action involved in “thinking outside the box” which we are all urged to do to set ourselves apart from the rest.
With my degree areas in Behavioral and Social Sciences and ASL, I’m able to combine the study of the Deaf as a cultural minority with the study of their language. Understanding the dynamics of an oppressed group thriving for empowerment will enable me to better work with and amongst them. Since interpreting requires the in-depth knowledge of both the target and source language, my minor in English will strengthen my skills as a reader/writer/speaker of English and simultaneously assist in my acquisition of interpreting skills.
Academically, this integrative degree will assist in the acceptance into the Deaf Studies Masters program at UNF, which will give me a back-up plan professionally as a Masters degree affords me the option to teach (preferably Deaf students) at the college level, which is something I’ve given consideration to.
Hope Diehl
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteWhat is your "prospective work", Kyle? I'm curious after reading that last paragraph.
ReplyDeleteHope Diehl
Hope,
ReplyDeleteI want to do work under a research program called neurophenomenology, a program initiated by Francisco Varela in the 1990s. Essentially, neurophenomenology combines the continental phenomenological tradition (Husserl, Heidegger, Merleau-Ponty) with current methods of investigation in the brain sciences.
Phenomenology takes off from the thesis that first-person experience directly influences our perception of reality; there is no distinctly third-person, objective perspective. With this in view, phenomenology seeks to deconstruct our experience of the world to identify the cognitive contribution of the knowing subject to the experienced phenomena.
The problem that called for such a research direction is known as the 'hard problem' of consciousness. The hard problem is explaining how first-personal subjective experience arises from the physico-chemical interactions of a dynamic system.
Without going any further into the dense conceptual matter, Merleau-Ponty (in his book "Phenomenology of Perception") sums the ideas up nicely: “The world is inseparable from the subject, but from a subject which is nothing but a project of the world, and the subject is inseparable from the world, but from a world which the subject itself projects" (499).
Neurophenomenology, for me, seems the most promising avenue for broaching the ontological question of what it means to be.
Kyle Larimer
I noticed that I left my name off of my first comment under this topic. I hope that will not be a problem, seeing as my Blogger ID is my full name. If it is a problem, will someone let me know so I can delete and re-post with a signature.
ReplyDeleteAfter viewing the suggested youtube site, I had to sit back and think. Regarding relationships, the merging or blending of different lifestyles is not a new concept. One example that came to my mind was the relationship between Pocahontas and John Smith in the early 1600’s. Not only did Pocahontas marry an outsider but she also converted to Christianity. The social norms of integrating lifestyles as depicted in the video clip is more common than anomalous if you take the time to think about it.
ReplyDeleteLinda Diggs
When it comes to personal development and integrating my areas of study, my degree program allows me to gain knowledge of Interpersonal Communication within Business and Public Administration relationships. This will be useful on personal basis because I’m Campaign Treasurer for a small local port commissioner seat. Interfacing with people from the business world and local political arena will provide me an opportunity to read their body language will help me develop interpersonal communication skills. Another area of study, Business; will provide me with an insight to today’s ever-changing corporate world while working on the campaign. Although I don’t plan on re-entering the workforce, I feel that the integration of my areas of study will help me in my personal world.
ReplyDeleteLinda Diggs
I love modern family!!!
ReplyDeleteIntegration to me is essentially combining different aspects of something and combining them to make something else. In the IDS major, we are integrating different disciplines (some totally unrelated), and making them work in our favor. Integration allows you to become well rounded, and experience things on a more enlightened level.
Callie Gaines
As a professional, integration is extremely important. These days, employers seem to be looking for people to give them the most bang for their buck. By having an integrated education and an integrated outlook on life, you can show that particular employer that you have the edge over other candidates.
ReplyDeleteIn my personal choice of profession, secondary science education, integration will play a huge role. Science isn't just science. There is reading, math, problem solving, hands on activities, team work, and creativity. By integrating all of these and more, I hope my students can walk away from the class not just knowing the content I taught them, but finding the hidden curriculum in the class.
Callie Gaines
Thankfully, my three areas of study go hand-in-hand. I was originally a biology major, and the fear of not being able to conquer Organic Chemistry I and II made me switch to IDS. Due to all of the biology-required classes I took, I already had my two concentrations taken care of. They ended up being full in Life/Biomedical Sciences, and Physical Science. The minor I chose was Science Education, due to the fact that I want to become a high school science teacher.
ReplyDeleteBy integrating these three fields of study, I am able to not only have experience in the sciences, but thankfully experience in how to convey those difficult subjects to my students. The combination of these three have helped me gain appreciation for sciences that I may not actually be interested in. (i.e. Physics and Chemistry).
Callie Gaines
Kyle, I think you should delete and re-post w/ your name since we did receive an announcement saying that last week that was acceptable, but from here on out it won't be accepted. I'd do it, just to be safe.
ReplyDeleteYou've got me googling "neurophenomenology". It sounds really interesting. Are you planning on grad school?
Hope Diehl
To me, Integration is taking different aspects of an idea and combining them into a whole. I actually think of Interdisciplinary Studies when I think of Integration and vice versa because they are very similar in my mind. I think that you cannot have IDS without Integration. I think it allows for a broader view of life and the ability to do multiple things.
ReplyDelete-Carly Frost
Thanks Hope, I suppose it would just be better for me to re-post.
ReplyDeleteYes, actually, I am planning on attending grad school. My original intent was to do a PhD in systems neuroscience or cognitive neuroscience. But, the more I think about it, the less I want to abandon graduate work in philosophy.
So, I am either going to do a masters in neuroscience and a PhD in philosophy, Dual PhDs in both fields, or find a PhD program that will provide enough leeway to pursue both under one degree.
Kyle Larimer
[Re-post of June 10, 2010 4:03 PM comment]
ReplyDeleteIntegration, for me, is the combining of disparate perspectives with the intention of developing a novel product. One qualification is that this product would have been unlikely without the specific individual insights and distinct integrative process.
Integration is critical as a professional because, whether you are an academic or part of any other field, problems are not cut and dry ordeals that come primed for a disciplinary/constrained approach.
My prospective work centers around the topic of subjective experience, a topic that science has, for the most part, neglected to account for, or include in its products. However, it is becoming increasingly clear that there is not "a world" but many different worlds, and our perception of the world affects the conclusions we draw about "reality." Integrating insights from the depths fo developed disciplines is the next move in understanding human nature.
As human beings we are first and foremost biological entities; however, biology lacks a sufficient conceptual foundation for dealing with experience. Philosophy has this knowledge-base (in continental phenomenology) and, when combined with the methods of cognitive science and the insight of biology, shows true promise for assisting in the development of a science of mind.
Kyle Larimer
This is critical in my opinion because more and more recently, employers are looking for more "well-rounded" people. I believe Integration gives us the ability to use this to our advantage.
ReplyDeleteCombining my three areas of study will assist me in the future because working with children with Autism can be difficult, but I'll have knowledge in Special Education, American Sign Language and Behavior Psychology. I think that these three areas tie into each other well because where the one subject leaves off, the other picks up. For example, Special Education doesn't incorporate American Sign Language but it does cover the fact that some children with Autism are non-verbal. This is the best path I have found to becoming a "well-rounded" professional.
-Carly Frost
Carly, have you already taken your ASL courses? Are you involved in the local Deaf community at all? I think, in our group, or maybe even in the class, you, myself, and Holly Blankenship all have ASL as one discipline if i'm remembering correctly.
ReplyDeleteI really wish UCF didn't delete the two minors they offered a couple years ago.
Hope Diehl
I believe that integration is an important characteristic of a professional. Often in the academic world, things such as disciplines are portrayed in black and white; with clear, distinct borders separating each discipline. However, when you enter the real world, and have to handle real-world issues composed of an infinite number of variables that do not discriminate based on these microcosmic "disciplines" in academia. I believe that we are in an era of multitasking. More and more often, businesses are making a shift from professional "one-trick ponies" to people who possess a broader, multidisciplinary background. One example of this is in radio. My fiancé is an on-air personality for one of the top 50 markets in the US. As companies like these tighten up on their budget, which has occurred heavily through the last decade, employment is always a popular topic in terms of restructuring. Radio jocks are no longer just that. If you're not a morning show or talk show host, you're most likely prerecording your 6-8 hour shift worth of breaks; all of which, with the help of computers, takes less than 10 minutes. Afterwards, if you’re worth your salt, you're either working other positions, such as in the promotions or programming department, or engineering. People who are amazing at one thing but are not willing to be flexible with the company’s needs and demands are a dying breed. Their positions are being downsized with the aid of technology and in their place are more hybrid/utility or multidisciplinary positions that aid to a more flexible and cohesive organizational structure. One’s ability to adapt to a changing environment is perhaps the most important feature of any professional, and is something to be very proud of.
ReplyDeleteThe ability to integrate ideas or disciplines is very important to me. Integrating my three areas of study (Business, Humanities, and Computer Science), was the only realistic way for me to get what I wanted out of UCF as far as an education foundation for my career goals. With dreams of working in the IT field, a strong business foundation is important for me, which is why I choice to pursue a separate business minor on top of my Commerce focus. My Information Technology minor, as well as the programming certificates that I've obtained outside of UCF, are perhaps the most important fundamental material in regards to my career choice. And as the world shifts to a more global community, I think it’s important for people to be culturally astute, and well-rounded when doing business outside of the country.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI love that show!
ReplyDeleteIntegration is a joining of concepts and information that you may not think will blend, but come together remarkably. It is a purpose or interest that brings it together as a new whole and with new meaning. Then that becomes something new, even though it’s not new individually. Integration is being able to adapt to new surroundings. It is especially important in the work environment to be able to integrate with whatever or whomever may come your way. There are always going to be obstacles, but you can get through them easier with integration.
Christina Hope
As a professional in today’s economy, it is important to be able to adapt to a new job. With a positive outlook and skills to do more than just your job, you will succeed in any position. Integration is critical to keeping a job. Employees may not always be as easy to work with as you would like or there may be conflict of interests. Do the best to integrate and work as a team and show the employer you can do more than just what you were hired to do. No one wants an employee who does the minimum; they want someone with goals and skills that will make their job easier as a manger/owner.
ReplyDeleteChristina Hope
I will need all the help I can get when I get done with my degree and go out to find the job I want. I am studying Interpersonal/Organizational Communication, Health and Commerce. I feel I will be well rounded when I go to apply for a Pharmaceutical Job. I am already a friendly and outgoing person, but when I finish my degree I will have the Communication skills I need to get that job. My knowledge in public health will better prepare me for what to expect in the doctor’s offices and hospitals. I will learn more as I learn the products, but I will want to impress the employer right away with my know-how of the field. I feel like commerce is an important area to study because it will get me ready for the real business world. There is so much to know, but if I know a little it can go a long way. Every job is a business, so I will feel confident that I will better the business that hires me.
ReplyDeleteChristina Hope
Great postings this week! I see we all have a great grasp on the idea of integration. Alen Repko has section in his book, Interdisciplinary research: process and procedure, that says, “…integrate means to unite or blend into a functioning whole. Interdisciplinary integration, then, is the process of creativity combing ideas and knowledge from disciplinary and other sources to produce a more comprehensive understanding or cognitive advancement.”
ReplyDeleteLinda D your experience really speaks to your post. Your thoughts on applying integration in the professional realm is something we can all take with us and utilize in our professional development. “To be an effective professional in today’s rapidly changing and diverse environment, it is fundamental to integrate your skills beyond the scope of your own responsibilities. A professional must be able to integrate their skills and the skills of others and make them work for the greater benefit of the team. The portion of the old saying “jack of all trades” is a concept that is proven in today’s demanding professional world.” Great post!
Hope, throughout this process you are very engaging, adding to the conversation, thank you! My favorite line is, “no one wants to be a one-trick pony”. I absolutely love it! Having the ability to think outside the walls of the “norm”, really will “set us apart”. Great job!
Callie, I think it is wonderful you want to be a science teacher; we need more teachers that help students look beyond what the book is telling them and want to help. I agree with your thought, “Science isn't just science. There is reading, math, problem solving, hands on activities, team work, and creativity.” What really hits home for me was your next idea, “By integrating all of these and more, I hope my students can walk away from the class not just knowing the content I taught them, but finding the hidden curriculum in the class.” What a great way to think of integration, it’s not always what is in front of you, it’s the hidden message, that will propel your analysis. Wonderful posts!
Kyle, I do have to say following your posts, I too had to look up Neurophenomenology, and want a fascinating area of intrigue. I feel you have a great understanding on where you are going and how integration is such a big part of the conceptual contemplation of your areas. I like your idea that “combining of disparate perspectives with the intention of developing a novel product.” Developing that “novel product” by looking beyond common reasoning is what drives innovation. Great job. I’ll be looking forward to your post the rest of the semester.
Carly, yes I have to agree that employers are looking for more “well rounded” people to effectively lead organizations. Companies are moving away from separate divisions with little or no connections, and looking to the concept of integration to help build responsible and enlightened progress that will drive business forward. Thank you.
Matthew, great addition! I like your comment, “One’s ability to adapt to a changing environment is perhaps the most important feature of any professional, and is something to be very proud of.” I think you hit the nail on the head with one word, adapt. The world is changing fast and dramatically thanks to technology. How we adapt to the changing environment will help keep interdisciplinary thinkers on the forefront of innovation.
Great job this week. Keep up the good work. We know Capstone is a lot of work, keep on top of the assignments, and you will do fine. For the group project, communicate. It helps.
Kevin Edmondson
Hope,
ReplyDeleteI didn't know that you were involved in ASL! I start taking ASL classes in the fall, actually. My best friend took all of them and she has taught me some to use with the students with Autism that I work with. I am not involved in the deaf community, are you? I would definitely be interested in getting involved, I just don't feel like I have enough ASL under my belt yet!
-Carly Frost
Hope-
ReplyDeleteI start my ASL classes in the fall, I'm very excited! My best friend and roommate has taken all of them and she has taught me some words to use with the children with Autism that I work with! That is great that you have taken some classes! Are you involved in the deaf community at all? I would love to be!
-Carly Frost
Integration to me is the mixing and combination of things that wouldn’t usually be considered with association. It is a process that brings forth progression and a great deal of development. With concern to IDS, it is the combination of different subjects which would usually hold no correlation, to create a new, distinctive way of viewing the outcome. With this, I mean, the outcome from the mixing creates a new perspective which wouldn’t be considered otherwise. Some examples of integration outside the norm are the basic premise of our Interdisciplinary majors; we are integrating our majors to create a new unique one.
ReplyDeleteShawnee Bailey
Integration as a professional is beyond critical. In today’s world, it is almost a must that one is able to integrate to be successful in their profession. With the ability to integrate, shows that an employee can quickly think outside the box and bring forth new and progressive ideas to the table…being of much benefit to that particular company. Being able to mold your thoughts to create new ideas will bring great success in the professional world as it will put you above other employees.
ReplyDeleteShawnee Bailey
I feel that my three areas, Public Affairs, Behavioral and Social Sciences, and Health Science will give me great opportunity to succeed in the future. After nursing school, I feel my knowledge in behavioral and social sciences will give me the ability to better understand and relate to patients because I will be able to understand the concepts behind their thoughts. In the medical world, being able to relate and understand your patients is a detrimental part to performing your duties correctly.
ReplyDeleteShawnee Bailey