Tools and methods in participatory modeling: Selecting the right tool for the job

November 1, 2018 - Alexey Voinov, Karen Jenni, Steven Gray<grayste1@msu.edu>, Nagesh Kolagani, Pierre D. Glynn, Pierre Bommelen, Christina Prell, Moira Zellner, Michael Paolisso, Rebecca Jordan<jordanre@msu.edu>, Eleanor Sterling, Laura Schmitt Olabisi<schmi420@msu.edu>, Bethany K. Laursen, Alison Singer<schmi420@msu.edu>, et. al.

Highlights

  • Participatory Modeling (PM) is a purposeful learning process for action.
  • We review some of the methods for PM, and identify their strengths and weaknesses.
  • We provide guidance for practitioners as they select methods for their PM projects.
  • A web portal for the Community of Practice on PM can assist in method selection.

Abstract

Various tools and methods are used in participatory modeling, at different stages of the process and for different purposes. The diversity of tools and methods can create challenges for stakeholders and modelers when selecting the ones most appropriate for their projects. We offer a systematic overview, assessment, and categorization of methods to assist modelers and stakeholders with their choices and decisions. Most available literature provides little justification or information on the reasons for the use of particular methods or tools in a given study. In most of the cases, it seems that the prior experience and skills of the modelers had a dominant effect on the selection of the methods used. While we have not found any real evidence of this approach being wrong, we do think that putting more thought into the method selection process and choosing the most appropriate method for the project can produce better results. Based on expert opinion and a survey of modelers engaged in participatory processes, we offer practical guidelines to improve decisions about method selection at different stages of the participatory modeling process.

Suggested Citation

Voinov, A., Jenni, K., Gray, S., Kolagani, N., Glynn, P. D., Bommel, P., ... & Sterling, E. (2018). Tools and methods in participatory modeling: Selecting the right tool for the job. Environmental Modelling & Software, 109, 232-255.

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  • participatory modeling,
  • urban food systems in flint
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