Second-order Learning in Developmental Evaluation: New Methods for Complex Conditions

Description

This book aims to account for how project learning and adaptation occurs through Developmental Evaluation (DE), especially under conditions of uncertainty, complexity and change. Drawing on enactive cognitive science, the author presents a DE framework designed to augment traditional monitoring and evaluation activities. Discussing this framework in detail, the author also reports upon an extended case project investigating the sustainability of a market town in the UK. The framework aims to support the reader in capturing second-order learning and exploring opportunities for innovative responses to dynamic, uncertain and complex operational conditions. Recommendations are offered for future research, and how the framework might be incorporated into the design and funding of projects deployed to work with wicked problems. Front Matter ....Pages i-xi Introduction (Andrew Mitchell)....Pages 1-19 Evaluating Complexity (Andrew Mitchell)....Pages 21-47 Second-order Learning Systems (Andrew Mitchell)....Pages 49-94 Community-based Sustainability Initiatives as Learning Systems (Andrew Mitchell)....Pages 95-126 Concluding Remarks (Andrew Mitchell)....Pages 127-141 Back Matter ....Pages 143-146