Abstract
ACCESS aims to increase the visibility, impact and use of the social sciences to address environmental problems, helping to drive transformative change towards just and sustainable societies. One of the ways that we champion environmental social science is by building a collaborative knowledge ecosystem, providing opportunities for diverse individuals and organisations to build trusting relationships, learn from each other and work together to inform policy and practice. The Annual Assembly is a key event in the ACCESS calendar. It has three primary aims: to encourage new thinking about the contribution of the social sciences to tackle environmental problems; to increase connections and network building across boundaries (e.g. career stage, discipline, sector); and to embed the ACCESS Guiding Principles, in terms of ensuring the event integrates Knowledge Co-Production, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, and Environmental Sustainability. This report evaluates the 2024 ACCESS Annual Assembly, which was attended by 87 people. It draws on data collected from Assembly attendees using surveys distributed both beforehand and afterwards. Findings indicate that the event was predominantly successful in addressing its aims, but with clear room for improvement in some key areas. Attendees enjoyed the event, remarking on its positive atmosphere. They complemented the design of the programme which included a mix of topics and session types (e.g. short keynotes, panel discussions, break outs, posters, outdoor activities). It is clear that these two elements – creating a positive atmosphere and structuring diverse opportunities for learning and connection – are crucial to the success of the event, as illustrated by these quotes from attendees: “It's been brilliant. I've really valued meeting such a variety of people from different disciplines and with different experiences and perspectives. It's been incredibly valuable.” “Varied and interactive format was excellent - fantastic to get outside for the walk alongs and look at posters and videos during the showcase, as well as time to chat and make new connections.”
Areas for improvement include increasing the diversity of participants in terms of career stage, ethnicity, and geography; enhancing the online experience of the event, for example by providing opportunities for virtual interaction; and refining the evaluation methodology, for example how we capture connections and network building. These findings will inform planning of future Annual Assemblies as well as other ACCESS events (e.g. Leadership College Retreats and Summer Schools).