Joint Fact-Finding in Science-Intensive Policy Disputes

When public policy decisions depend on complex science, disputes often stall progress and polarize communities. Joint Fact-Finding (JFF) offers a structured, collaborative approach to bridge the gap between technical expertise and public trust. Through this text-based course, you will learn how to design, launch, and facilitate Joint Fact-Finding processes that turn scientific uncertainty into a platform for consensus. You will master the techniques needed to align stakeholders on facts before debating policy solutions. What you'll learn: - Understand the core principles of collaborative governance and Joint Fact-Finding - Identify and engage stakeholders, scientists, and decision-makers in shared inquiry - Define clear research questions and agree on objective methodologies for technical assessments - Manage scientific uncertainty, conflicting data, and expert disagreements constructively - Integrate modern digital collaboration tools to share data transparently with the public - Translate complex scientific findings into actionable, consensus-based policy recommendations We begin with foundational definitions of collaborative policy-making before exploring step-by-step frameworks for structuring joint inquiries. You will explore practical scenarios in environmental planning, public health, and urban development. This course is designed for policy analysts, urban planners, environmental advocates, and public administrators seeking structured methods to resolve science-heavy disputes. No prior background in dispute resolution is required. Start building collaborative solutions to complex policy challenges today.