Tyler, Stephen R.2011-08-112011-08-112008http://hdl.handle.net/10625/46816This paper explores different approaches to applied research in natural resource management that focus on adaptive learning as an element of the resource management challenge of continuous sustainable production. The research frameworks suggested by Adaptive Management (AM), social learning, and complex adaptive systems (resilience thinking) are considered. While AM typically emphasizes natural science and ecological systems, and social learning emphasizes human agency and interaction, resilience thinking addresses social-ecological systems as complex entities that behave in dynamic and cyclical fashion. All three frameworks offer insights into practices that support learning, adaptation, and sustainability. Some of the experience in the Canadian province of British Columbia is given in example. The emerging framework of adaptive co-management offers a promising approach to capturing relevant features of the other three. These four different conceptual approaches should not be seen as mutually exclusive alternatives but rather are characterized by overlapping features with different focal strengths. To date, experience with applying any of these frameworks in practice is limited and remains a big challenge. The conceptual frameworks considered here could underpin research into more effective adaptive learning in resource management.Text1 digital file (47 p. : ill.)enNATURAL RESOURCESRESOURCES MANAGEMENTADAPTIVE LEARNING SYSTEMSADAPTATION TO CHANGERESEARCH METHODSAPPLIED RESEARCHWorking Paper