Dissertation
Participatory environmental modeling and system dynamics: integrating natural resource science and social concerns
Washington State University
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Washington State University
12/2007
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.7273/000005750
Abstract
Creating a nexus of science and local knowledge through which problems and solutions
may be discussed is essential for finding consensus-based solutions to environmental
problems. Participatory environmental modeling using system dynamics can create such a nexus. This process uses the tenets of scientific theory, hypothesis testing and clear statements of assumptions. Models may be used to integrate professional science, street science and experiential knowledge with timeframes that reflect the needs of agency and private resource management. In so doing, models serve as repositories for collective knowledge that have a shared language.
Literature and experience support this thesis. The first chapter of this dissertation
provides a review of the literature and supplies the reader with the reasoning behind the
use of this methodology. It is followed by an in-depth case study involving sage grouse
which are currently being petitioned for endangered status under the Endangered Species Act. The experience of this case study further supports the thesis and provides a foundation for the exploration of other modeling processes. An analysis comparing ten
participatory modeling case studies illustrates the effectiveness of a broad range of
applications and techniques. The design of system dynamics software makes it easy to use. Designing an effective model is not easy. After assessing the case studies a variety of techniques have surfaced that modelers use to manage different types of problems. The final chapter argues that simulation models can be built with scientifically defensible standards. In so doing, participatory models can serve as effective facilitation tools for the problems and conflicts that come with the management of natural resources.
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Details
- Title
- Participatory environmental modeling and system dynamics
- Creators
- Allyson Beall King - Washington State University, School of the Environment (CAS)
- Contributors
- Frederick Andrew Ford (Chair) - Washington State University, School of the Environment (CAS)
- Awarding Institution
- Washington State University
- Academic Unit
- School of the Environment (CAHNRS)
- Theses and Dissertations
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Washington State University
- Publisher
- Washington State University
- Number of pages
- 259
- Identifiers
- 99901054940501842
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Dissertation