The Research-Development Relationship in Rangelands: An Opportunity for Contextual Science

This excellent paper argues for a contextual grounding for research and development in rangelands. Since R&D is designed to bring about change, how is our understanding of R&D developed, and how is our understanding of 'change' constructed? A distinction is proposed between the perceptions and actions of the researcher. In 'first-order' R&D the researcher remains outside the system studied. This assumes an objective stance and interventions in a closed system. In 'second-order' R&D the action of the researcher is part of the interactions being studied. Perceptions and responsibility are emphasised. The paper focuses on pastoral and agro-ecological applications, but the theory and approach is applicable to other participatory and action based research.