Take a moment to recognise the lenses shaping the way you see things

The methodology employed while engaging with stakeholders in sustainability transformation cuts across three major concerns, that is, practicability, learning potential and reliability of results. Understanding when and why a certain methodologyical approach is best helps researchers in tailoring participatory research to the suitable needs and preferences of their stakeholders.

What you will achieve with this tool?

Determine key criteria for selecting most accurate, participatory, and transformative research method.

Explore how to take action

Remember, this is an inspiration guide (not a recipe) to help you decide what will be most transformative for your context. Every context is unique!

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STEP 1 Clarify the purpose and scope of participation What is the level of participation you want to attain in your research? The framework is based on Galende-Sánchez & Sorman (2021) Read more
2
STEP 2 Map stakeholders and their roles Read more
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STEP 3 Assess the criteria for the method selection. Read more
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STEP 4 Plan iterative feedback Read more

With whom and for whom are you transforming?

All stakeholders should be actively involved

Which power dynamics might hinder local communities from caring for ecosystems?

Participatory and transformative methods are not just about inclusion; they are about shifting power, fostering mutual learning, and creating actionable knowledge for sustainability transitions. The choice of method should reflect the collective ambition and context-specific needs of the research.

References

(Deliverable D2.2)

 Fisher L, Kok K, Harmáčková Z, Schultzová P, Suchá L, Groenendaal K, Pamungkas I, Kovács EK (2025) Science-policy-practitioner labs: Co-creating leverage points for transformative pathways.