Participatory approach –an alternative system of learning

Learning Outcomes:

• Describe participatory approach paradigm and explain basic principles of participatory learning.

The participatory approach advocates the active involvement of the public in decision-making processes, with appropriate public depends on the topic at hand. The public may be average citizens, stakeholders of a particular project or policy, experts and even members of government and private industry. In general, policy processes can be seen as a three-step cycle of planning, implementation and evaluation, where a participatory approach can be applied to some or all of these steps (Figure 1.1).

Figure 1.1.Participative policy process

From a pragmatic point of view, it is better to have as much knowledge, experience and expertise as possible in dealing with the complex (and therefore uncertain) nature of social issues and problems. It is necessary to create access for all relevant people to contribute to solutions and planning for the future.

From a normative perspective, new problems and issues in society often raise questions for which existing social norms are inadequate or non-existent, causing uncertainty and anxiety in society. In addition, pluralism (often of conflicting) norms in society, it is often mixed with interests (financial or otherwise) that are unevenly represented in society. It is therefore desirable to allow as democratic a process as possible to ensure that all values and opinions can be represented in discussions and decision-making.

Participatory processes are expected to be able to involve the public directly in planning and implementation. The participatory approach is seen as a way to strengthen social cohesion. It is a useful process for building consensus when differences of opinion and even disputes need to be resolved. When this approach is used at the beginning of the process, participants can share their views, values and reflections on the emerging issue as they are still developing and maturing. Where opinions are already polarized, some methods are particularly useful in mediating between stakeholders to reach a consensus or at least a joint decision after all views have been presented. All views are expressed. At least through these processes, mutual understanding is achieved and all voices can be heard.

Involvement in participatory processes also builds public capacity. It does this by educating the public and creating networks of relevant people. In doing so, not only the public learns, but also decision-makers learn how to improve their services and products when they receive direct feedback from "users". Rather than creating first and then fixing, it is most effective to involve end-users’ in initial design and planning.