Joint Fact Finding for Science-Intensive Public Policy

When public policy decisions hinge on complex scientific data, disputes often stall progress and polarize communities. Resolving these science-intensive conflicts requires a structured, collaborative approach that builds trust among stakeholders, scientists, and decision-makers. This text-based course teaches you the principles of Joint Fact Finding (JFF), a proven framework for collaborative planning and dispute resolution. You will learn how to transform technical disagreements into constructive dialogues, allowing diverse groups to agree on the facts before debating policy solutions. What you'll learn: - Understand the foundational concepts of Joint Fact Finding and its role in public policy disputes - Analyze the dynamics of science-intensive conflicts in urban planning and environmental management - Design collaborative processes that bring together scientists, policymakers, and community advocates - Formulate shared research questions that address the concerns of all participating stakeholders - Apply modern best practices for data transparency and structured decision-making in public forums - Facilitate consensus-building agreements when dealing with uncertain or conflicting scientific data The course begins with essential definitions and foundational concepts of collaborative planning before guiding you through the practical stages of designing, executing, and evaluating a Joint Fact Finding process. You will read through clear explanations and analyze structured approaches to resolving complex, data-driven public disputes. This course is designed for beginners in urban planning, public policy, environmental science, and community advocacy, with no prior experience in dispute resolution required. Master the art of collaborative science-based policy making and help communities find common ground today.