Evaluating participatory research: Framework, methods and implementation results.
This paper describes a structured participatory process and associated evaluation protocol developed to detect systems learning by decision makers involved in the management of natural resources. A series of facilitated participatory workshops were conducted to investigate learning when decision makers and influencers were confronted with the multiple, complex interactions arising from decisions concerned with the nexus of water, food and energy security. The participatory process and evaluation of learning were trialled in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), where integrated scientific evidence was systematically presented to challenge existing beliefs concerned with the effectiveness of proposed policy actions and development investments. Consistent with theoretical propositions, individually held values, beliefs and attitudes were deployed as the primary factors (and psychometrics) that underpin and influence environmental management decision making. Observed and statistically significant changes in the three psychometrics expressed by decision makers in response to the facilitated presentation of scientific evidence during the participatory process, provided supportive evidence of systems learning and the evaluation protocol.
Mekong Region Futures Institute, 1655/340 Petchaburi Rd, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; CSIRO Ecosystem Sciences, James Cook Drive James Cook University, Douglas Campus, Townsville QLD 4811, Australia. Electronic address: alex.smajgl@mekongfutures.com.
Alex
A
Smajgl
Mekong Region Futures Institute, Naga House, Vientiane, Lao Democratic People's Republic; CSIRO Ecosystem Sciences, 41 Boggo Road, Dutton Park QLD 4102, Australia. Electronic address: john.ward@mekongfutures.com.
John
J
Ward
D001210:Asia, Southeastern; D003247:Conservation of Natural Resources; D006801:Humans; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D016730:Program Development; D015397:Program Evaluation; D055818:Public-Private Sector Partnerships; D012106:Research
Evaluation; Monitoring; Participatory research; Water, food and energy nexus