Topic 4: Evaluating success in integrated research initiatives
IntSci Moderators: Topic Four introduction
(Sun 12 Mar - Wed 15 Mar)
Dear IntSci E-conference participants,
We are now three quarters of the way through our discussion, and we
would like to suggest that this last forum could be used to provide an
opportunity to reflect on where we have got to, and find ways to move
this area forward. To do this we put forward three final questions that
respectively provide for reflection on this area in general, look for
indicators of success, and seek to encourage continuing opportunities
for learning across different projects.
Our first topic provided a chance for some introductions, and to provide a way for getting a common language and understanding around what we have called Integrated Science for the purpose of this discussion. Topic 2 focused on practice and in particular the "learning" element". How do we and can we practice joint inquiry. Our third topic provided a forum for people to talk more specifically about how they find these initiatives working in practice.
Against this background we suggest the following questions as a starting point for this final discussion. To make a posting to the discussion just send an e-mail to IntSci@learningforsustainability.net .
Question 11. How mainstream is this type of joint inquiry?
In this discussion we have heard of many examples of Integrated Science. Are these islands of success, or are there (many) examples of where they are growing in time and space to become institutionalized in organizations or geographic areas.
Question 12. How are people tracking the success of integrated research initiatives?
Similarly we have heard how these initiatives are different, and
breaking new ground. We have also heard that successful initiatives
often take time. How can we demonstrate then to our funders and other
stakeholders that these initiatives are on track after one, two or four
years. Or do they take longer than four years to actually achieve their
results.
Question 13. What frameworks are being used for cross case study analysis?
An increasing numbers of papers are being written about people's experiences in integrated research or joint inquiry initiatives. However, many of these just deal with the experiences that have been encountered in one case study. It would seem that learning across a number of case studies would provide even more robust lessons. What examples are there of cross case analysis going on in this area. And are there any examples for learning across different cases that might emerge from this conference.
Beyond these questions there are still four more days to post on the topics that have emerged in earlier discussions:
- Case studies of where integration is emerging.
- Tools for supporting group processes.
- How to use the above tools to support reflection.
- General queries and notices
This is a good time to participate in the discussion. We are now three
quarters of the way through. If you haven't posted already, it would be
great to hear from you. An event like this, is like any other forum, an
opportunity to hear from and meet other people that are working in, or
interested in, the same area. The benefits of an e-mail conference are
still largely about networking, and the benefits that come from it.
We look forward to your participation. To make a posting to the discussion just send an e-mail to IntSci@learningforsustainability.net . If you have questions, concerns or suggestions about the operation of this list please feel free to contact us directly.
best regards
Chrys Horn, Will Allen & Margaret Kilvington
IntSci Conference Managers
E-mail us: IntSci-owner@learningforsustainability.net
IntSci website:
http://www.landcareresearch.co.nz/research/social/IntSci_info.asp