Resolving Scientific Policy Disputes with Joint Fact Finding

When public policy decisions hinge on complex scientific data, disputes often stall due to conflicting expert opinions and stakeholder distrust. Joint Fact Finding (JFF) offers a structured, collaborative approach to bridge the gap between science and policy, turning technical conflicts into shared solutions. This text-only course guides you through the foundational principles and practical steps of JFF, showing you how to bring together policymakers, scientific experts, and community stakeholders to build consensus on highly technical issues. You will learn to navigate the intersection of science and public decision-making without getting lost in adversarial science. What you'll learn: Understand the core principles and phases of the Joint Fact Finding process; Identify and engage key stakeholders to establish collaborative research questions; Facilitate agreement on scientific methodologies and expert selection; Analyze technical data collaboratively to resolve conflicting interpretations; Apply modern frameworks for managing scientific uncertainty and public distrust; Draft consensus-based policy recommendations based on shared factual agreements. The curriculum begins with the essential theory of collaborative governance and scientific disputes, then progresses through step-by-step methodologies, real-world case study analyses, and written scenario-based exercises. This course is designed for aspiring urban planners, policy analysts, environmental advocates, and public administrators, with no prior experience in dispute resolution required. Start reading today to master the collaborative strategies needed to resolve complex, science-intensive public disputes.