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Introduction
Introduction to Using Social Science for MPA ManagementSocial Science Application | Information Gaps | Contributions of Social Science | Legislation | About This Site Social science is the process of describing, explaining, and predicting human behavior as practiced by individuals or groups. (NOAA Science Advisory Board) Social Science ApplicationMarine protected areas (MPAs) can be a valuable tool in conserving the marine environment. However, in establishing an MPA, marine refuge, or reserve, managers need to consider how these areas may impact the people who use them, and how users, in turn, impact those areas. Historically, most research on MPAs has focused on natural science; however, recent studies have shown that social factors, rather than biological or physical factors, determine the success of an MPA. Therefore, applied social science research is a key component in the successful planning, development, management, and monitoring of an MPA. As with all sciences, when conducting social science research, the reliability and credibility of any information is dependent on the precision of the data collected and the accuracy of the method of analysis. Information GapsThe use of social science can solve a variety of problems by filling some information gaps and helping managers identify
Potential Contributions of Social ScienceSocial science has the potential to support and improve MPA management across a wide variety of issues. Here are five ways social science can contribute to management: Assessment – Managers must have an understanding of conditions before making decisions, by gathering baseline information. Incorporating social science into the assessment process can identify affected groups, as well as potential areas of conflict. Incorporating social science early in the decision-making process can be useful in predicting potentially avoidable problems and resistance. Feedback – Regular feedback can be helpful in establishing the effectiveness of management techniques and tracking effectiveness over time. Social science research can be used to gauge public perceptions of management focus and effectiveness while also giving the public the opportunity to suggest management changes. Eventually the feedback process may lead to open dialogue between managers and stakeholders. Prediction – A range of social science tools, including economic tools and case studies of similar communities, can predict the potential outcomes of management decisions and strategies. By developing models to predict the outcomes of specific management actions, considerable time and effort might be saved and potential problems identified. Mitigation – Identifying stakeholder motivations and areas of concern may help reduce, or even avoid, conflicts among users. Acceptance – Social science can be used to understand and address public concerns. Concerns can be addressed through targeted outreach and education programs, which may lead to increased support from the public and constituents. LegislationThe MPA Center's Social Science Strategy for Marine Protected Areas reports that virtually all federal mandates relevant to MPAs refer to the integral role of social and economic factors in MPA policy, development, and management decisions. Some examples of federal legislation involving social science can be found in Appendix C of the Social Science Research Strategy for Marine Protected Areas. About This SiteA recent MPA Needs Assessment revealed that many managers desire a greater understanding of social science. The National MPA Center has a number of efforts underway to address this need, including a recently-completed national Social Science Research Strategy, and an ongoing series of workshops to identify regional social science needs. This interactive Web site was developed to bring social science information directly to MPA managers. |
