Evaluating Participatory Modeling: Developing a Framework for Cross-Case Analysis

• Published in: Environmental management (New York) Vol. 44; no. 6; pp. 1180 - 1195
• Main Authors: Jones, Natalie A, Perez, Pascal, Measham, Thomas G, Kelly, Gail J, d'Aquino, Patrick, Daniell, Katherine A, Dray, Anne, Ferrand, Nils
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York New York : Springer-Verlag 01-12-2009; Springer-Verlag; Springer Nature B.V; Springer Verlag (Germany); Springer
• Subjects: Aquatic Pollution; Atmospheric Protection/Air Quality Control/Air Pollution; Australia; Case studies; Collaboration; Collective action; Conservation of Natural Resources; Decision Making; Decision making models; Earth and Environmental Science; Ecology; Environment; Environmental Management; Environmental Sciences; Forestry Management; Islands; Knowledge; Management; Micronesia; Models, Theoretical; Natural resource management; Natural resources; Nature Conservation; Participation; Perception; Resource management; Waste Water Technology; Water Management; Water Pollution Control; Australia; Micronesia; ISEW, Pacific, Kiribati; I, Central Pacific, Pacific Ocean Is; Participation; Evaluation; Modeling; Complex systems science
• ISSN: 0364-152X; 1432-1009
• DOI: 10.1007/s00267-009-9391-8

Participatory modeling is increasingly recognized as an effective way to assist collective decision-making processes in the domain of natural resource management. This article introduces a framework for evaluating projects that have adopted a participatory modeling approach. This evaluation framework—known as the “Protocol of Canberra”—was developed through a collaboration between French and Australian researchers engaged in participatory modeling and evaluation research. The framework seeks to assess the extent to which different participatory modeling initiatives not only modify perceptions among and interactions between participants, but also contribute to collective decision-making. The article discusses the development of the framework and it's application to three case-studies, two from Australia and one from the Pacific Island of the Republic of Kiribati. The article concludes with some comments for future use of the framework in a range of participatory modeling contexts.