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Combining participatory mapping with Q-methodology to map stakeholder perceptions of complex environmental problems

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Andrew Donaldson

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Abstract

It is readily accepted that understanding socio-environmental challenges requires consideration of multiple stakeholder perspectives and knowledge claims. But a largely ignored question is 'how best to analyse those competing perspectives and claims?'. This paper explores the development of one GIS-based methodology - and reports on its application - to understand and map stakeholder knowledge. We find that combining Q-methodology with participatory mapping helps to overcome a significant problem in social engagement: representing the unclear connection between what people say or do and their underlying attitudes, values or beliefs. The paper is based on a reflexive engagement with flood management and natural adaptive capacity in the Scottish-English Borderlands. The paper confirms how such topics can benefit from an appreciation of the wide range of stakeholders' positions, as well as the underlying beliefs informing those positions. Most importantly, we provide an account of our methodology, offering a template for others interested in unpacking complex socio-environmental issues. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Forrester J, Cook B, Bracken L, Cinderby S, Donaldson A

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Applied Geography

Year: 2015

Volume: 56

Pages: 199-208

Print publication date: 01/01/2015

Online publication date: 23/12/2014

ISSN (print): 0143-6228

ISSN (electronic): 1873-7730

Publisher: Elsevier

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.apgeog.2014.11.019

DOI: 10.1016/j.apgeog.2014.11.019

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