ABSTRACT
This chapter begins with a definition of the term “knowledge domain” and discusses its importance to address sustainable development challenges in an effective way. Next the chapter illustrates how context-specific interactions of knowledge domains are inherent in efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Then the chapter shifts attention to the need for development practitioners to apply a transdisciplinary approach, tapping into and integrating knowledge from diverse sources, including the academic and gray literature and local and traditional knowledge. The section that follows highlights the remarkable diversity of the professional backgrounds of MDP students and the challenges this diversity creates in the classroom. Programs must instill in students a holistic understanding of interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary processes as well as complementing the development of broad, cross-disciplinary knowledge and skills with opportunities for specialization. The chapter illustrates this with a partial overview of pedagogical approaches utilized by MDP programs to foster a holistic understanding of development challenges and hone requisite cognitive skills. Next, there is a discussion of the role MDP students play in accessing and generating knowledge, primarily through their capstone field practicums. Finally, the chapter reflects on the rapid emergence of Artificial Intelligence and how it may impact the acquisition of knowledge and the development of cognitive skills.
