Interdisciplinarity Among Faculty Members in Arab Universities: an Exploratory Study

Aim: This study explores the reality of interdisciplinary collaboration among faculty members in Arab universities. Method: A descriptive correlational design was adopted, utilizing a quantitative approach and social survey methodology. A questionnaire comprising closed-ended questions on a five-point Likert scale was developed, focusing on two main axes: social sciences faculty and natural sciences faculty. The questionnaire was distributed to a convenience sample of 491 Arab university professors. Results: The findings revealed moderate interest among natural and social sciences faculty in interdisciplinary fields and low participation in cross-disciplinary research teams. There was a consensus that universities do not actively encourage interdisciplinary practices. The study identified no statistically significant differences in faculty attitudes or interdisciplinary practices based on gender, age, country of graduation, or professional experience. However, differences emerged based on the workplace: faculty members in Gulf countries exhibited more positive attitudes toward interdisciplinary. Recommendations: The study recommends that Arab universities implement a substantive shift in supporting interdisciplinary scientific activities by integrating interdisciplinary collaboration into promotion and evaluation criteria.