WHAT IS INTEGRATIVE STUDIES 1

WHAT IS INTEGRATIVE STUDIES?

What is Integrative Studies?

Jason Antu

Texas Tech University

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Abstract

The understanding of a well rounded education is to be explored and understood. It is in

various forms of combining and augmenting skills and knowledge to create a unified

understanding.

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Introduction

With regards to understanding the knowledge structure an academic advantage is created with

Integrative Studies. The idea is that if we specialize in a field of knowledge we are only given

one scope of learning to see and understand from. Our entire knowledge base is thus limited to

only what we know from that one specific field, limiting our lexicon. But if we diversify our

specialties across multiple fields we then expand the scope of what our knowledge and

understanding can encompass. But this alone is not enough to fully embody and take advantage

to the unique system that Integrative studies can provide

Definition

One must be able to harmonize and unify the knowledge bases into one synergistic pool of

understanding. This gives one the ability to view complex problems for multiple perspectives

and angles rather than just the limited scope of only just one. It is here that the definition of

Integrative Studies is most evident. (Augsburg, 2006) It is not in just learning in multiple fields

of study, but rather doing so while unifying their knowledge base into one central source of

information.

Education

The bases for more my University Studies is around three general areas of focus. The first

is in Public Relations. Public Relations relies heavily on establishing and maintaining

relationships. I have always had a strong suit for being an ambassador in lots of my social

endeavors, as well as a sales background. I fell like PR would enhance those skill sets that I

already possess. Mass Communications is the second area of concentration. I felt as if studying

communication and how it varies in social settings, as well as in various groups would be crucial

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in any business field. To understand how to convey information or transmit knowledge from one

person to another more effectively seems extremely crucial to many business and personal

settings. The final area of study is that of Leadership and Development. The skill sets in this area

those that are most crude for me and could use the most refinement. The raw un tailored efforts

in managerial and leadership skills have always been without form Having some basic

knowledge and structured guidelines to follow makes this a valuable tool to cultivate my own

leadership skills.

Complex Problem

One of the biggest issues facing the business industry is a saturated market entry for

entrepreneurs. The dilemma here begins with the limited availability for entry of anyone

wishing to create a business either due to cost barriers or lack of resources to help setup a basic

framework. A major objective would be to create a domain or formula for an aspiring

entrepreneur to follow as a map for their entry into any industry. The objective of doing so would

ideally yield more diverse and unique businesses and enterprises in a growing economic

capitalist society. This would create the opportunity for more innovative ideas and marketplaces

to exchange resources and trades for an evolving society.

Connection

The combined education and work experiences I have gained, ideally are contributing to my

reservoir of knowledge. My passion is for creative art in photography and graphic design. While

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my areas of study are focused on communicating and building relationships, I feel that a job in

digital creation could benefit in being able to convey its internal communication channels more

efficiently with my unique combination fields of study. A career in a graphic design studio or

even media arts develop firm would be greatly enhanced by strengthening its interior

structure ,and reinforcing its communication channels. A career that would allow me to express

innovative ways to create a more efficient work environment that would yield more satisfactory

results is the ideal career path for me.

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References

Augsburg, T. (2006). Becoming Interdisciplinary. In T. Augsburg, Becoming Interdiscplinary (pp. 19-20). Dubquque: Kendall/Hunt Publishing.

Discussion Board Grading Rubric

Criteria Points Possible

Points Earned

Thread Content & Organization All key components of the DB question are answered in the

thread. The thread has a clear, logical flow. Major points are stated clearly. Major points are supported from the readings and by good

examples (pertinent personal or conceptual examples are acceptable) or thoughtful analysis (considering assumptions, analyzing implications, presenting clear rationales).

40

Replies Focus on a meaningful point made in another student’s

thread. Provide substantive additional thoughts regarding the

student’s thread. Student explains and supports from the readings why s/he likes or dislikes the idea.

Contain a logical, clear flow.

30

Logistics of DB At least three posts (one thread and two replies). Word count is sufficient (within a scope of 300 words for

thread; within a scope of 100 words for each reply). Thread and replies are submitted by the deadline. Appropriate “netiquette” manners are evident.

15

Readability and APA Style Spelling and grammar are correct. Sentences are complete, clear, and concise. Paragraphs contain appropriately varied sentence structures. In-text citations and References used appropriately and

correctly.

15

Total: 100