To make research and innovation more responsive to societal needs, we must move beyond the confines of the academic world, and bridge the gaps between science, policy, practice and society. Therefore, we take a transdisciplinary approach, defined by multi-actor engagement. By taking on the challenge of including diverse perspectives, and integrating different knowledges, we contribute to addressing complex problems, such as climate change, health inequalities and social injustice.
Connecting science and society
Athena Institute
Transdisciplinarity to address societal challenges
In this video series, Athena researchers share how they address complex problems based on societal needs. They explain why collaborating with the people who are directly affected by these problems is essential, and how they make extra efforts to include groups that are often overlooked, such as marginalised communities. Ultimately, they demonstrate that experiential knowledge is crucial in co-creating fair, doable, and sustainable solutions.
Methodologies for multi-actor engagement
Methodologies
Athena is a leader in developing methodologies for multi-actor engagement and knowledge integration. Our most notable methodologies can be divided into three categories:
- Public Engagement & Dialogue
- Joint Learning in Action
- Inclusive Knowledge & Technology Production
Research domains
The types of challenges we address are determined by their societal relevance and urgency. Our current work spans three interconnected research domains:
Action-oriented, participatory and contextualised
Athena's methodologies are participatory and co-creative in nature, and share common premises, like reflexivity, inclusivity and joint learning.
We always tailor our methods to the context of the challenges we address, including the spectrum of actors involved, and the goals we set out to achieve. We continue to evolve our methods iteratively throughout the process, ensuring adaptability and ongoing learning.