The value of facilitation in interdisciplinary socio-environmental team research

Abstract

We propose that facilitation can be used as a research method to improve the collaborative synthesis of interdisciplinary teams’ socio-environmental work. As described in this communication, our approach to facilitation adapts to teams’ practical and conceptual needs as their research develops. Our synthetic practice of facilitating interdisciplinary meetings at the US National Socio-Environmental Synthesis Center (SESYNC) further emphasizes the importance of process, intentionality, and advance preparation. By combining facilitation fundamentals with research skills, it is possible to create the conditions for effective interdisciplinary integration.