Communities of Practice

About Communities of Practice

In SELINA, we consider Communities of Practice (CoP) as collaborative networks where individuals with shared interests or challenges come together to deepen their understanding, exchange knowledge, and collaboratively develop innovative solutions. We refer to the concept defined by Wenger (1998), which presents CoPs as gathering individuals who commit to improve their practices and expand their skills through regular, meaningful interaction. CoPs are designed to foster dialogue among participants, encouraging the development of new skills and perspectives that they can apply in their professional roles. Through facilitated discussions, members draw from project outcomes, personal insights, and collective experiences to co-create solutions and strategies that advance their fields.

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Objectives

The primary aim of SELINA's CoPs is to create a structure to allow the participants to learn, exchange experiences and integrate knowledge on biodiversity, ecosystem conditions and ecosystem services into both public and private decision-making processes.

These CoPs have three key objectives

In the short term, to serve as national and EU-wide platforms that support and promote knowledge exchange and learning during the SELINA project
In the medium term, to provide a permanent structure for the participants to continue their learning and knowledge exchange after the SELINA project
In the long term, to create a network of CoPs that will continue to exchange knowledge and experience after the SELINA project

Additionally, SELINA encourages cross-communication between CoPs across different Member States, enabling a networked approach where shared challenges are addressed collaboratively. SELINA will help coordinate meetings on overlapping issues, allowing CoPs to exchange solutions and best practices, though these interactions can also be independently organized by the CoPs themselves. Through this approach, SELINA aims to cultivate a vibrant, supportive network where knowledge flows freely, fostering a sustainable impact on decision-making at all levels.

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