Abstract
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Participatory modeling is increasingly recognized
as an effective way to assist collective decision-making
processes in the domain of natural resource management.
This article introduces a framework for evaluating projects
that have adopted a participatory modeling approach. This
evaluation framework—known as the ‘‘Protocol of Canberra’’—
was developed through a collaboration between
French and Australian researchers engaged in participatory
modeling and evaluation research. The framework seeks to
assess the extent to which different participatory modeling
initiatives not only modify perceptions among and interactions
between participants, but also contribute to collective
decision-making. The article discusses the development of
the framework and it’s application to three case-studies, two
from Australia and one from the Pacific Island of the
Republic of Kiribati. The article concludes with some
comments for future use of the framework in a range of
participatory modeling contexts.