Wageningen Univerisity and Research Centre is known for its
practical and societally relevant research in spatial development.
Stakeholders currently put much emphasis on participatory processes
in landscape planning procedures. This poses a special challenge
for research. What role does research play in our present world
characterised by complexity, competing claims and development
needs, and an increased concern for climate change and
environmental impact? In the book 'Knowledge in Action' we
explore different types of transdisciplinary research that
scientists engage in. Depending on the societal context and the
interests of local citizens, researchers apply different research
approaches to optimally incorporate the various points of view in
their research and promote processes enhancing dialogue and shared
results. In the book authors present their research experiences:
their theoretical inspiration, the research methodology applied to
consult, share and collaborate with societal actors in order to
create options for change. The book includes several striking
examples from The Netherlands (both successful and less effective),
and also innovative examples from communities in Africa and Asia.
The authors reflect on opportunities, problems and dilemma's
they had to deal with. They especially address how far the role and
theoretical perspectives of collaborative researchers can lead them
in action research. Can they limit themselves to joint knowledge
production and learning processes or should they engage in
strategic positioning, advocacy and entrepreneurship to make it
happen? The book discusses the issues that researchers should
consider when they position their research activities within
ongoing developments at landscape level. Read the book and judge
for yourself.
