To address problems characterized by high degrees of ecological and social complexity, uncertainty and indeterminacy, as well as conflicts over values and interests; and to generate positive change in dynamic social-ecological systems, consider applying social learning approaches, i.e., adaptive and participatory approaches that facilitate learning by the individuals and social organizations involved in resource and environmental governance. Social learning takes place within collaborative management strategies and may focus on building assessment, planning, implementation, monitoring, adapting, communicating, and understanding skills; using management interventions as learning platforms, enabled by active community facilitation, conflict resolution, negotiated settlements, mutual learning, convergence of goals, monitoring, and concerted action; or generally relate to interacting and overlapping processes: participation, negotiation, integration, systems orientation, and reflection.

Beyond the Community 
The learning experience: Builds skills for flexibility and responsiveness to environmental issues and for facilitating community engagement.

Citation: Hayward, G., A. Diduck, & B. Mitchell. (2007). Social Learning Outcomes in the Red River Floodway Environmental Assessment. Environmental Practice, 9 (04), pp 239-250. Published online: 03 April 2008.
Citation Type: Research