The first three short readings are provided as examples of how modelling is used in generating information on the three sets of systems that constitute the framework for thinking about planning for water resources management being explored in this course - bio-physical, socio-economic and governance. They also introduce some of the key concepts and terms we will be discussing (e.g. adaptive management). The one-page reading from the CogNexus Institute and the first chapter from Conklin's book introduce the concept of "wicked problems" and how they are confounded by social complexity. In reading each of these materials think about their implications for meeting the challenges involved in planning for water resources management. In particular consider what the articles suggest for discussion of the questions listed below.
Resilience Alliance Take a quick look at this homepage to get a sense of this increasingly influential organization, which we will re-visit several times. Then read its page on Adaptive Environmental Assessment and Management (AEAM) Workshops
Ecological Economics If you are short of time read the first paragraph and skim the rest; but I encourage you to read the whole article at an early opportunity.
Allison, G.T. 1971 Essence of Decision Read the whole of this brief summary of a classic analysis demonstrating how different models of behaviour lead to differing conclusions about what determines decisions and events.
CogNexus Institute Wicked Problems Explore this page to get an initial understanding of a "wicked problem" and then read the article below by Conklin. I suggest you hold off exploring their other articles and the Dialogue Mapping technique and software developed by the Cognexus Institute until later.
Conklin, J. 2006. "Wicked Problems and Social Complexity," in Dialogue Mapping: Building Shared Understanding of Wicked Problems. Wiley. pp. i-20
Basic Facilitation Skills. 2002. Published by Human Leadership and Development Division of The American Society of Quality; The Association for Quality and Participation; and The International Association of Facilitators.