Introduction to Joint Fact Finding in Science-Intensive Policy Disputes

When scientific uncertainty meets public policy, disputes often stall because stakeholders cannot agree on basic facts. This text-only course introduces you to Joint Fact Finding (JFF), a structured collaborative method designed to bridge the gap between technical experts, decision-makers, and the public. You will transition from viewing policy disputes as win-lose battles to seeing them as opportunities for shared discovery and consensus-building, equipping you with the tools to facilitate evidence-based agreements. Learn the foundational principles and phases of Joint Fact Finding in public policy. Identify the roles of scientists, stakeholders, and facilitators in collaborative inquiry. Analyze how to frame scientific questions that address both technical and community concerns. Apply strategies to manage scientific uncertainty and conflicting expert data. Establish clear ground rules and protocols for joint data collection and analysis. Address modern challenges like misinformation and differing risk perceptions in public disputes. The course begins with core definitions and historical contexts of science-intensive disputes, then guides you step-by-step through designing, executing, and implementing a successful Joint Fact Finding process. This course is designed for aspiring urban planners, policy analysts, environmental advocates, and community leaders with no prior background in dispute resolution. Start reading to master the art of collaborative scientific inquiry in public policy.