INVESTIGATING THE BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES OF INTERDISCIPLINARY EDUCATION IN HIGHER EDUCATION SETTINGS

Abstract

This study explores the dynamics of interdisciplinary education in private universities in Lahore, Pakistan, addressing a significant research gap in global discourse on this pedagogical approach. The research investigates faculty perceptions, benefits for students, and challenges associated with interdisciplinary education. Based on mixed-methods approach, including surveys & interviews, study reveals generally positive faculty perceptions, emphasizing the value of interdisciplinary education in enhancing critical thinking, problem-solving skills & overall learning experiences. Students, in turn, are reported to derive multifaceted benefits, including increased creativity, adaptability, and holistic understanding of societal challenges. Yet, challenges such as limited institutional support and resistance from traditional structures pose obstacles to effective implementation. Findings not only donate to localized understanding of interdisciplinary education in Lahore but offer insights applicable to educational contexts worldwide, aiming to enhance quality and relevance of higher education in an ever-evolving landscape.