Skip to main content

Research Repository

Advanced Search

A participatory modelling approach to developing a numerical sediment dynamics model

Jones, Nicholas

A participatory modelling approach to developing a numerical sediment dynamics model Thumbnail


Authors

Nicholas Jones



Abstract

Despite the recognition of fluvial geomorphology as an important scientific input to the management of river catchments, limited knowledge exchange has occurred between scientific researchers and river management stakeholders. An example of this issue can be found within the limited uptake of numerical models of sediment dynamics by river management stakeholders. The uptake of these models is important as they have the potential to demonstrate how, at the catchment-scale, the impacts of management strategies of land-use change affect sediment dynamics and resulting channel quality.
This thesis describes and evaluates a new transdisciplinary approach which involves river management stakeholders in an iterative and reflexive participatory modelling process. This approach aimed to create an environment for knowledge exchange and social learning between the stakeholders and the research team in the process of co-constructing a catchment-scale sediment dynamics model. This process involved four groups of UK river catchment stakeholders, who were involved in several stages of the participatory modelling process including: requirements analysis, model design, model development, model assessment, and an evaluation of the process. Stakeholders input into a number of aspects of the modelling process, such as: data requirements, user interface, modelled processes, model assumptions, model applications, and model outputs.
The findings from the participatory modelling process provided valuable insights into the requirements of river management practitioners, and identified a number of gaps in knowledge for future research. The process evaluation critically assessed the participatory modelling process, and the solutions implemented to address the participatory issues identified in the literature. The findings revealed a number of methodological contributions including methods for ensuring participation is meaningful, and knowledge exchange and social learning occur. The usefulness and future of the developed model are also established through the model assessment. The conclusion reflects on these findings, identifies the implications for fluvial geomorphology and participatory modelling, and presents topics for future research.

Citation

Jones, N. A participatory modelling approach to developing a numerical sediment dynamics model. (Thesis). University of the West of England. Retrieved from https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/883372

Thesis Type Thesis
Publicly Available Date Mar 29, 2024
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/883372
Award Date Aug 1, 2017

Files




Downloadable Citations