Abstract
This article critiques the tendency of academic departments to become isolated and protective of their disciplinary boundaries, limiting opportunities for intellectual growth and collaboration. While departments provide essential structure and identity within higher education, they can also foster parochialism, territorialism, and insularity. The discussion highlights theatre as an inherently interdisciplinary field that naturally connects with literature, music, anthropology, cultural studies, and technology, making it well-suited for cross-departmental partnerships. Examples include collaborations with engineering and architecture on computer-aided design, with visual artists and composers on performance art, and with modern languages and cultural studies scholars as dramaturgs. The article argues that deans, chairs, and faculty must actively support such initiatives by providing incentives like release time, funding, and resources. It concludes that breaking the habit of isolation is essential for revitalizing teaching, research, and creative work within academic departments.
Recommended Citation
Whitmore, Jon
(1988)
"Academic Departments: Breaking the Habit of Isolation,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 63, Article 5.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol63/iss1/5
