The Integrated Science, Business, and Technology (ISBT) program at La Salle University was established around the turn of the 21st century as an innovative response to calls for reform in higher education, particularly those articulated in documents like "The Case for Change". This report critiqued the "tyranny of the disciplines" and advocated for integrated learning to prepare students for a rapidly evolving world. The ISBT program was conceived within this "zeitgeist of interdisciplinary thought" to address complex, real-world problems that require multidisciplinary solutions.

The formal development of the ISBT program began with a Stage I proposal to La Salle's Academic Affairs Committee on May 26, 1999. Key individuals involved in championing and shaping the program included Dr. Richard A. DiDio, Dr. Nancy Jones, Marsha W. Timmerman, Dr. William L. Weaver, Dean Gregory Bruce, Provost Richard Nigro, and Professor Susan C. Borkowski. The program received "enthusiastic approval". The ISBT program was architected around the integration of Science, Business, and Technology, underpinned by General Systems Theory, which provided a framework for understanding interconnectedness. A core objective was to cultivate graduates skilled in teamwork, project management, and the application of integrated knowledge. The program aimed for an entering class of 40 students in Fall 2000 and a total enrollment goal of 300 students.

A defining characteristic of the ISBT curriculum was its originality, featuring "all new major courses" specifically designed for the program, rather than drawing from existing departmental offerings. The curriculum began with common foundational learning for the first two years, covering science, math, technology, and business concepts. Throughout its operation, the program emphasized hands-on, active learning, utilizing dedicated modern laboratory spaces and an "Innovation Factory".

The curriculum evolved over time. Initially, students specialized in one of three "strategic sectors", which formalized by 2005 into distinct concentrations: Energy & Natural Resources (ENR), Information & Knowledge Management (IKM), and Biotechnology (BIO). A significant revision, known as "ISBT2.0," occurred in 2010, which integrated Information & Knowledge Management principles into the core coursework for all majors, reflecting its growing importance. The program's logo evolution visually tracked these shifts, culminating in the Triquetra logo representing deep integration.

A cornerstone of the ISBT program was its commitment to real-world problem-solving and industry connections. This was facilitated through internships and co-operative experiences at various organizations and culminating Capstone projects often developed in collaboration with industry partners. A notable unique feature was the mandatory participation in the SEA-PHAGES national research program, providing authentic discovery-based research experience.

Administratively, the program operated as the "Department of Integrated Science, Business & Technology" within the School of Arts and Sciences, maintaining close ties with Natural Sciences. It is also a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics) designated program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, providing benefits like OPT extensions for international students.

As of late 2024, the ISBT program is at a critical juncture as La Salle University has paused the admission of new students into the major, effective October 8, 2024. Currently enrolled students are assured they can complete their degrees. The specific reasons for this pause have not been publicly detailed in the available information. This decision highlights the complexities in sustaining innovative, specialized interdisciplinary programs.

Despite the pause, the program has established a notable legacy at La Salle. Its alumni have pursued diverse careers, applying their integrated education. The legacy also resides in its pedagogical principles: interdisciplinary collaboration, problem-based learning, ethical integration, and real-world experiential learning. The experience of the ISBT program offers valuable institutional knowledge for the future of interdisciplinary education at La Salle.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit williamlweaver.substack.com