Multidiscipline vs. Multidisciplinary: What's the Difference?
By Harlon Moss & Janet White || Updated on May 22, 2024
"Multidiscipline" refers to multiple fields of study, while "multidisciplinary" describes an approach that integrates knowledge from multiple disciplines to address a common goal.
Key Differences
"Multidiscipline" refers to the presence or involvement of multiple separate fields of study. For example, a university offering courses in engineering, biology, and history can be described as having a multidiscipline curriculum. On the other hand, "multidisciplinary" describes an approach that combines insights and methods from multiple disciplines to address a specific problem or project. For example, a multidisciplinary research team might include experts in medicine, sociology, and computer science working together on a public health issue.
While "multidiscipline" emphasizes the diversity of fields, "multidisciplinary" focuses on their intersection and cooperative efforts. In educational contexts, a multidiscipline program offers varied courses, whereas a multidisciplinary program encourages collaborative projects across these courses.
In practice, "multidisciplinary" approaches are often used in solving complex problems, requiring the synthesis of knowledge from various fields. Conversely, "multidiscipline" settings provide a broad educational base, offering multiple perspectives without necessarily integrating them.
Both terms underscore the importance of diverse fields of knowledge, but "multidisciplinary" specifically stresses the synergy achieved through their integration.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Presence of multiple fields of study
Integration of multiple disciplines
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Focus
Diversity of fields
Collaboration and synthesis
Example Context
University curriculum with various fields
Research team with experts from different fields
Emphasis
Variety
Integration and cooperation
Usage in Education
Broad educational base
Collaborative projects and problem-solving
Multidiscipline and Multidisciplinary Definitions
Multidiscipline
Variety of academic disciplines.
She studied a multidiscipline curriculum including physics, literature, and economics.
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Multidisciplinary
Combining multiple fields for a common purpose.
The multidisciplinary team developed a new healthcare strategy.
Multidiscipline
Multiple distinct fields of study.
The conference featured presentations from a wide range of multidiscipline topics.
Multidisciplinary
Integrated approach to problem-solving.
A multidisciplinary project included biologists, engineers, and data analysts.
Multidiscipline
Separate fields coexisting.
The research institute promotes a multidiscipline approach with various departments.
Multidisciplinary
Cooperative work among various experts.
A multidisciplinary approach led to significant advancements in the study.
Multidiscipline
Educational or professional diversity.
A multidiscipline faculty offers expertise in numerous areas.
Multidisciplinary
Blending methods and knowledge.
The course offers a multidisciplinary perspective on environmental issues.
Multidiscipline
Collection of different subjects.
The library's collection is multidiscipline, spanning science, art, and history.
Multidisciplinary
Collaboration across disciplines.
Their multidisciplinary research provided innovative solutions.
Multidiscipline
Combining several disciplines; multidisciplinary.
Multidisciplinary
Of, relating to, or making use of several disciplines at once
A multidisciplinary approach to teaching.
Multidisciplinary
Relating to multiple areas of study.
FAQs
Is "multidiscipline" used in everyday language?
It's more commonly used in academic or professional contexts to describe a variety of fields.
What does "multidiscipline" mean?
"Multidiscipline" refers to the presence or involvement of multiple separate fields of study.
Can "multidisciplinary" be applied to education?
Yes, it often refers to educational programs that encourage collaboration across different fields.
What's the main difference between "multidiscipline" and "multidisciplinary"?
"Multidiscipline" emphasizes the variety of fields, while "multidisciplinary" focuses on their integration and collaboration.
Do "multidisciplinary" approaches require more collaboration?
Yes, they typically involve significant collaboration across different fields.
How does "multidisciplinary" benefit research?
It allows for the integration of diverse expertise to solve complex problems.
What is "multidisciplinary"?
"Multidisciplinary" describes an approach that integrates knowledge from multiple disciplines to address a common goal.
Is "multidiscipline" synonymous with "multifaceted"?
Not exactly; "multifaceted" refers to having many aspects or sides, not necessarily different disciplines.
Can a university be both multidiscipline and multidisciplinary?
Yes, a university can offer a variety of fields (multidiscipline) and also promote collaborative projects (multidisciplinary).
What is an example of a multidiscipline setting?
A university offering courses in engineering, biology, and history.
What is an example of a multidisciplinary project?
A research team with experts in medicine, sociology, and computer science working together on a public health issue.
Is "multidiscipline" common in high school education?
High schools may offer a range of subjects, but true multidiscipline programs are more typical in higher education.
How does "multidiscipline" support broad education?
It provides exposure to a wide range of subjects, fostering diverse knowledge.
Are "multidiscipline" and "interdisciplinary" the same?
"Interdisciplinary" also implies integration, similar to "multidisciplinary," but "multidiscipline" emphasizes variety.
Is "multidisciplinary" limited to science and technology?
No, it can apply to any fields, including arts, humanities, and social sciences.
Can a single person be multidisciplinary?
A person can have multidisciplinary skills if they integrate knowledge from various fields in their work.
How does "multidiscipline" impact curriculum design?
It ensures that students have access to a wide array of subjects.
What industries use "multidisciplinary" approaches?
Industries like healthcare, engineering, environmental science, and urban planning often use multidisciplinary approaches.
Can a course be both multidiscipline and multidisciplinary?
Yes, a course can cover multiple fields and also integrate their knowledge and methods.
How do "multidisciplinary" teams function?
They bring together experts from various fields to work collaboratively on complex issues.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Co-written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
