Introduction

This chapter looks at how computer models were used in IA Focus Groups within the study discussed in this volume. In these groups, different computer models – ranging from complex and dynamic global models to simple accounting tools – were used in the second phase of the procedure. Based on a total of 52 IA Focus Groups with citizens, conducted in six European and one US cities, selected empirical results are presented. The analysis of the results focuses on the added value of using computer models during the meetings of such groups, the lessons learned about the models themselves and the ways in which they are used.

The terminology in this field is far from clear. For the purpose of this chapter, we define computer models as all kinds of software tools that include a realistic representation of some social, economic or environmental processes. Integrated Assessment Models (IAM) are included in this definition, but also simpler and non-dynamic tools. On the other hand, by this definition, we are excluding computer games (SimCity and the like) and educational software with text only.

Why use computer models in participatory processes for sustainability science in general, and Integrated Assessment (IA) in particular? We hypothesize that computer models are powerful tools for promoting a numbers of insights about complex sustainability issues like climate change. Computer models provide direct access to expertise and due to their flexibility and interactivity might be better able to support learning processes and decision-making.

Introduction

Citizens' perceptions of climate change have been explored in various empirical studies with quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Dunlap (1998) explored lay perceptions and levels of understanding of climate change in six countries with a quantitative poll. In order to understand perceptions of climate change, Kempton (1991) compared lay perceptions with those of scientists in the US with a qualitative technique, while Bell (1994) looked at differences between media and public discourses on climate change. Other studies can be found in Lőfstedt (1992) and in Read (1994). In the study discussed here, however, the objective was not to look at the perceptions of the lay public per se but to study in which ways citizens can provide reflected and informed opinions, and participate in sustainability science in general and in Integrated Assessments (IA) in particular.

For this purpose, IA Focus Group procedures (see Chapter 1) were developed in the ULYSSES project. While in the first two phases of these procedures collages were produced and models were used (see the discussions in Chapters 4 and 5), the final phase of the IA Focus Groups was mainly devoted to the formulation of citizens' reports – written assessments by the participants themselves. These were usually prepared by first drafting steps and discussions in earlier sessions. What is the problem? What should be done? How should it be achieved? Who should do it? Which barriers are foreseen? These are some of the questions discussed by the participants and addressed in their citizens' reports.