Breaking the Code

The synthesis of case studies into larger datasets has been paramount to understanding the capacities of socio-ecological systems (SESs) to cope with disturbances and change. Datasets with larger numbers of cases allow for the use of multiple qualitative and quantitative methods and help build understanding of complex system dynamics. While largely based on common theories and concepts, individual SES datasets have become idiosyncratic, limiting research by the number of comparable cases and hindering meta-analysis and synthesis efforts. In order to successfully synthesize parallel efforts, a common understanding of coding schemes, protocols, structures and variables is necessary. This workshop will bring together students, experts and practitioners involved in SES research to begin leveraging separate activities and gain an understanding of the current state of the cumulative data and data synthesis efforts. The workshop will facilitate the identification of foundational common elements in the collection and coding of data and will establish the goals and parameters necessary for the continuation of working groups which will engage in longer-term collaboration leading to more unified approaches, increased access to data, and practical applications. These activities will help increase the scale and scope of available SES data offering increased opportunities for broad comparative analysis, meta-analysis, and synthesis across diverse datasets in the study of social-ecological systems.