It is increasingly acknowledged that transdisciplinary research methods (TD) are useful in research projects on global environmental problems for which science alone cannot provide a definite solution. However, many researchers have pointed out that the theoretical concepts on ideal TD processes are extremely difficult to apply in practice. This project aims to identify a practical framework for TD research. The practical framework consists of methods and tactics for fostering knowledge co-creation, identified from the current TD practices implemented throughout the world, as well as from knowledge and perspectives of experienced TD researchers and stakeholders. In order to make sure that the proposed framework is useful, the project uses the above results for capacity building and will revise our framework as necessary.

The project consists of the following three components:

1. 1) TD Landscape (literature reviews, collection and analysis of case studies)
2. 2) Lessons learned (researcher and stakeholder experiences)
3. 3) Capacity/network building (lectures and website)

Under a component of TD landscape, this project analyses the international research landscape surrounding TD research. It examines similar research approaches, such as participatory approach and action research, and seeks to establish a new definition of TD research and project design (methods, tools and approaches) for fostering knowledge co-creation in relation to different types of environmental issues.

In addition to this survey of international TD literature, the project carries out in-depth studies with researchers and stakeholders in TD projects at RIHN and other institutes. The project carries out in-house workshops as well as interviews and workshops at existing project field sites. Focused study with researchers seeks to develop a novel and unique methodology for knowledge generation based on personal experiences and to identify tips and tactics to enhance stakeholder engagement in TD research. Investigation with stakeholders seeks to reveal the effects of TD projects on stakeholders and communities, which are the premise of TD projects, but largely overlooked in current project evaluation. With this combination of global and focused investigations, the project seeks to synthesize the TD research experiences so far and share the information to the next generation researchers and practitioners of co-creation project.

TERRA School 2019 (TD School Co-organized by RIHN and Regional Centre for Future Earth in Asia)