Keywords
participatory modelling, co-construction, conceptual model, natural resources management, facilitation
Start Date
1-7-2008 12:00 AM
Abstract
The outcomes of a series of tests of the ARDI (Actors, Resources, Dynamics and Interactions) method in complex cases or conflict-ridden situations is presented. ARDI is part of a companion modelling approach that makes it possible to engage a broad spectrum of stakeholders in the design and development of land and water management plans. It is essentially based on participatory workshops that set out to collaboratively imagine a future open, dynamic management system, capable of adaptation and anticipation, by gathering the various affected stakeholders in a partnership dedicated to preserving the natural resources and promoting a sustainable development. Its originality lies in the coconstruction of a “conceptual model” of the functioning of the territory, according to a main negotiated development question. The approach is based on the collective articulation of the key elements of a territory and context by affected stakeholders such as managers, representatives, socio-professional technicians, NGOs, experts and scientists, and local policy makers. This sharing of representations is done by means of a series of collective workshops during which Actors, Resources, Dynamics and Interactions (ARDI), making up the stakes of the territory are identified and clarified. This work of co-construction is conducted within a precise methodological framework that we present in a step-by-step format. The method is also illustrated with concrete examples gleened from the tests carried out by the authors during the last 5 years. Finally, the need for skills development and pitfalls to avoid when applying the method are discussed.
ARDI: a co-construction method for participatory modelling in natural resources management
The outcomes of a series of tests of the ARDI (Actors, Resources, Dynamics and Interactions) method in complex cases or conflict-ridden situations is presented. ARDI is part of a companion modelling approach that makes it possible to engage a broad spectrum of stakeholders in the design and development of land and water management plans. It is essentially based on participatory workshops that set out to collaboratively imagine a future open, dynamic management system, capable of adaptation and anticipation, by gathering the various affected stakeholders in a partnership dedicated to preserving the natural resources and promoting a sustainable development. Its originality lies in the coconstruction of a “conceptual model” of the functioning of the territory, according to a main negotiated development question. The approach is based on the collective articulation of the key elements of a territory and context by affected stakeholders such as managers, representatives, socio-professional technicians, NGOs, experts and scientists, and local policy makers. This sharing of representations is done by means of a series of collective workshops during which Actors, Resources, Dynamics and Interactions (ARDI), making up the stakes of the territory are identified and clarified. This work of co-construction is conducted within a precise methodological framework that we present in a step-by-step format. The method is also illustrated with concrete examples gleened from the tests carried out by the authors during the last 5 years. Finally, the need for skills development and pitfalls to avoid when applying the method are discussed.
