Abstract
Interdisciplinary research in the American university is reviewed with emphasis on the requirements for such research and the problems of its development in this special environment. The central question: Can interdisciplinary research be managed effectively at a university in the United States? This is examined for the university administrator, the educator, the faculty researcher, the research manager, the donor of external funding, and the ultimate user of the research. Key areas are: the distinction between inter- and multidisciplinary research as it relate to university policy and practice; factors in as esment and aggregation of resources; the influence of the departmental structure; problems of communication; management methodologies and philosophy; needs for planning; the use of professional staff and the unique capabilities of the universities relative to other types of research organizations. Common difficultie experienced by universities are discussed and suitable corrective steps outlined. Finally, a set of recommendations is made.
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