Developing a common language for transdisciplinary modelling teams using a generic conceptual framework

Abstract

In developing countries, problems of poverty and the environment are inextricably intertwined, with any potential resolution requiring underlying political, social and economic causes to be addressed. An integrated research approach to examine such problems should not only involve a transdisciplinary team that covers the broad scope and perspective of relevant issues, but also ensure that interactions between different issues are deliberately explored. Differences in theories, methods, terminologies and research interests of team members, often hinders integration and leads to such complex projects being fragmented by disciplines. This paper describes a template for developing a conceptual framework for a project aimed at promoting socially inclusive and sustainable agricultural intensification in West Bengal (India) and southern Bangladesh. The project involves consideration of the various climate, market, environmental, social, political and health risks that threaten the livelihoods of these rural communities. The proposed template was designed to provide a common framework that the team can readily co-develop and thus overcome some of the challenges of working with transdisciplinary teams. This framework underpins the integrated modelling activities of the team.