The missing piece of the integrative studies puzzle

Abstract

Within Interdisciplinary Studies (IS), the effectiveness of Integrative Studies has been hampered by the difficulty of effectively integrating/synthesizing theories among multiple disciplines. Without effective integration, we cannot generate theories that will enable highly effective action. This paper presents Integrative Propositional Analysis (IPA)a tool based on an emerging stream of research on the structure of theories. Using a few simple rules, IPA provides a concrete visual-mapping approach to integrating theories. And, of equal or greater importance, IPA provides an effective method for measuring 'how integrated' or 'how coherent' theories are as a new way to predict how useful the theory will be for representing our understanding of complex situations and improving the ability of individuals, organizations, and coalitions to take effective action based on those theories. This is expected to be particularly useful for students and interdisciplinary teams for integrating theoretical perspectives in an initial assessment of problems and situations.

Integrative Propositional Analysis for developing capacity in an academic research institution by improving strategic planning

“…More recently, Integrative Propositional Analysis (IPA) has emerged as a useful method for rigorously and objectively analysing the systemic structure of conceptual systems such as models, theories, and strategic plans. A number of publications attest to the usefulness of IPA including applying for and assessing research grants (e.g., Cotae, ), learning (Goltz, ; Russell & Wallis, ), finding the core of theories (Wallis, ), explorations into the limits of our thinking (Wallis & Valentinov, , ), integrating theories within and between disciplines (Wallis, ), understanding and improving theories (Wallis, ), assessing and improving policy (Shackelford, ), interdisciplinary studies (Wallis, , ), developing more sustainable theories (Wallis & Valentinov, ), programme evaluation (Houston, Wright, & Wallis, ; Wright & Wallis, ), and strategic knowledge mapping (Wallis & Frese, ; Wallis & Wright, ).…”

Understanding and improving the usefulness of conceptual systems: An Integrative Propositional Analysis‐based perspective on levels of structure and emergence

“…From a structural perspective, that is for developing theories of improved structure for improved usefulness in practical application, there now exists a range of techniques within the broader structural methodology. In that methodology, IPA may be used to evaluate the Complexity (i.e., 'simple complexity', complicatedness or the number of concepts within the theory) and Systemicity (measure of systemic structure) of theories (Wallis, 2016a) and to integrate/synthesize theories within and between disciplines (Wallis, 2014b(Wallis, , 2020c with objectivity and rigour.…”

Critical systems practice 1:Explore—Starting a multimethodological intervention

“…More could be said, and they do need further clarification. Wallis' (2019) ‘integrative propositional analysis’ could usefully be employed to evaluate the structure and internal coherence of each. But the main point here is to check for the breadth and depth of the set of perspectives.…”