Course Launch: Advances in Transdisciplinary Research on Global Environmental Change in Latin America and the Caribbean

The Inter-American Institute for Global Change Research extends a warm invitation to the official launch of the online, free, certificate-based course entitled: “Advances in Transdisciplinary Research on Global Environmental Change in Latin America and the Caribbean.” The self-paced course was developed in partnership with the University of California Long Beach and the University of Calgary and is based on experiences in transdisciplinary knowledge production to address global environmental change in Latin America and the Caribbean. 

The course consists of a case study book with examples of transdisciplinary projects carried out in Peru, Brazil, Bolivia, Panama, Jamaica, Mexico, Uruguay, and Colombia. The case studies are interwoven with four modules that present key concepts and tools for transdisciplinary practice: 1) Fundamental concepts of transdisciplinary research; 2) Lessons from Latin America and the Caribbean; 3) Capacity building for successful collaborations in transdisciplinary research; 4) Design and management of projects for equitable and ethical TD.

The launch webinar will take place on 16 July 2025, from 12:00 to 13:00 (Panama). During the event, the course structure, development process, pedagogical approach, and possible uses, especially in Global South contexts, will be presented. The event will feature presentations by researchers who participated in the development of the course, as well as special guests who will share their experiences in transdisciplinary research and reflect on the potential of this tool for training in the region.

The webinar will feature:

  • Laila Sandroni, Transdisciplinary Program Leader, Inter-American Institute for Global Change Research
  • Gabriela Alonso Yáñez, University of Calgary
  • Lily House-Peters, University of California, Long Beach
  • Cristina Adams, University of São Paulo
  • Basirat Oyalowo, Oxford Brookes University / ITD Alliance

Agenda:

 

  • Welcome and introduction to the IAI – Omar López Alfano (5 min)
  • Presentation on the IAI's TD Academy – Laila Sandroni (10 min)
  • Course development process and structure – Gabriela Alonso Yáñez and Lily House-Peters (15 min)
  • Pedagogical approach and use of modules – Cristina Adams and Basirat Oyalowo (10 min each)

In addition, the speakers will answer three key questions:

  • What would you like to highlight from the IAI course based on your experience as a transdisciplinary researcher?
  • To what extent does this resource respond to the needs of the Global South?
  • What possible uses do you envision in your professional practice and networks?

Question and answer session (10 min)

The event will have Spanish-English interpretation. Registration is available at: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_z_Kw82ePQHO4zntK-QOhig#/registration