COMPLEX MODEL OF A TRANSDISCIPLINARY ACTION-RESEARCH PROGRAM ON THE ENVIRONMENT, THROUGH INTERINSTITUTIONAL NETWORKS

Abstract

We propose a complex integral model of environmental transdisciplinary action-research processes through interinstitutional networks for the National Polytechnic Institute, NPI (Instituto Politecnico Nacional, lPN), a large and influential Mexican public university. The great quantity of interrelated factors which characterize turbulent socio-environmental phenomena in today’s world, need to be observed and studied as processes of great complexity, from different worldviews as cognitive phenomena that require a transdisciplinary gaze. The program of the interinstitutional research network is being designed and implemented, through a gradual participative integral or systemic action-research or iterative cybernetic process. Today, at the NPI, there are several research and action networks working on environmental problem situations. This program, links research networks with action networks through a systemic transdisciplinary process, in which a heterogeneous group of professors, students, authorities and administrators participate with research-action projects at different units within the institution. The results of the projects can also be applied in public, private and social organizations. The environmental action-research network program is comprehensive, it is oriented towards research, design, implementation, and diffusion of a series of integrated synergic technological solutions or ecotechniques, to solve water, energy food, waste, housing, education and health problems under a conscientious vision of integral and sustainable quality.