Lessons from a change laboratory in plant health risk management: The dynamics of concept formation

Abstract

Addressing complex societal challenges needs the formation of new concepts. This process is inherently collective, historical and culturally mediated. Despite the importance of concept formation, the dynamics and use of artifacts at different levels of abstraction during concept formation interventions remain poorly understood. This paper analyses the collective dynamics and content of learning moves within a Change Laboratory intervention conducted with a heterogeneous stakeholder group in the Plant Health Risk Management Network, focusing on temporal dynamics and use of instruments in concept formation. Our findings show that concept formation involves the interplay of spatial and temporal elements within the activity system. The analysis of learning moves from our intervention shows an oscillatory movement between past, present and future, with an emphasis on the present and future. Furthermore, the intervention showed a balanced use of tools, although models and visions were prevalent. The learning trajectory observed within the intervention differed from previous studies, suggesting that each intervention follows a unique path shaped by the social and historical context of the participants and the approach of the interventionist. This study provides new analytical tools for depicting the dynamics in formative interventions, contributing to a deeper understanding of concept formation processes.