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Our approach to research: collective learning
At the core of our research is collective learning for sustainability. This requires process-oriented research enabling actors involved to become part of the learning process.
Our research approach to thematic studies, empirical research, case studies or evaluations rests on the following elements:
- A systematic approach: our research is based on methodologies applicable to complex programs and takes the elements of a log-frame or evaluation criteria into account
- A systemic approach: with our instruments and our methodology we are able to map the system as a whole and assess systems interventions in their impact and usefulness
- A learning approach: we provide our approach, our methodology and our instruments, but we believe that the conceptualization and implementation of a research, evaluation or case study needs to unfold in an optimal ownership and self-dynamic among the participating stakeholders. We see the final design of a research or evaluation as an iterative consultative process
- A network actor approach: based on the social network theory, we have the means to look behind the structure of a network and analyse its ability to allow dialogue, coordination and communication among its members.
- A dialogic approach: ensuring the voices of different stakeholder views and acknowledging their expertise and professionalism is as important to us as the assessment of process and communicative competence
- A multi-level/ multi-layer/ multi-stakeholder approach: impacts of interventions have to be interpreted within a complex set of factors - we map the relevant factors
