TURNING THE SUPER TANKER:BEYOND ETHNOGRAPHY AND INTO COLLABORATIVE LEARNING APPROACHES TO URBAN ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Abstract

This paper reflects on the place of ethnography in collaborative learning in the context of urban environmental management. The Low Impact Urban Design and Development (LIUDD) research programme is aimed at facilitating the uptake and implementation of low-impact principles, with a focus on improved approaches to storm-water management. Collaborative learning approaches include the use of case studies, learning groups and a web-based database. Place-based case studies are intended to showcase some examples of LIUDD and develop forums for refining research questions and developing innovative solutions. Ethnographic research approaches fit well with the process of collaborative learning, helping to understand how stakeholder groups think about, evaluate, control and manage land and other resources. Organising and presenting this information in accessible formats, providing opportunities for stakeholders to reflect on and learn from each others’ practices and experiences, and facilitating critical dialogue aimed at transformative change are key aspects of the approach.