Issue 1/2 Vol. 39 1997

Mastering the complexity of environmental problem solving by case study approach

SCHOLZ, R. W., MIEG, H. A., WEBER, O.

Environmental problem solving copes with decision making about complex, real, societal relevant problems which are shaped by environmental features. Thus typically ill-defined problems are treated. Five principles characterizing case work as a research methodology for environmental problem solving, are presented. Epistemic and epistemological problems of complex problem solving that require strategies and methods of verification, knowledge representation (e.g. "intuitive” vs. "analytic”) and the integration of conflicting knowledge and heuristics are discussed. A case study on regional development is introduced as an example of environmental decision making. Some methods for knowledge integration and the organisation of integrative projects like "formative scenario analysis” are introduced when describing this case study.

Keywords: case study, environmental problem solving, synthesis, qualitative decision making - Empirical and theoretical -

Short Title: Scholz, R. W. et al. (1997) PsyBeit 1-2:169

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