Resiliency Practices in Academic Institutions: The Role of Biocultural Diversity and Environmental Literacy in Causal Mechanisms

Authors

Stephanie C. Campo Rojas, Florida International UniversityFollow

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Major/Program

Earth Systems Science

First Advisor's Name

Kathleen Quardokus Fisher

First Advisor's Committee Title

Committee Chair

Second Advisor's Name

Leonard Scinto

Second Advisor's Committee Title

Committee Member

Third Advisor's Name

James R. Riach

Third Advisor's Committee Title

Committee Member

Fourth Advisor's Name

Geoffrey Potvin

Fourth Advisor's Committee Title

Committee Member

Keywords

Biocultural Diversity, Environmental Literacy, Process Tracing, Causal Mechanisms, Resiliency, Academic Institutions, Professional Development

Date of Defense

6-28-2023

Abstract

The organized actions of people that occur within institutions impact and influence socioecological systems in both positive and negative ways. When these actions alter the environment in unfavorable ways, society and the environment are harmed. This harm leads to negative and disproportionate impacts on underrepresented groups like those of Latin communities. When institutions implement resiliency practices, this harm can be reduced, and positive impacts on the system may be realized. This research analyzed causal mechanisms within academic institutions that led to resiliency practices that were beneficial for socioecological systems. The causal mechanisms (also called events) leading to institutional resiliency practices at academic institutions were process traced using the theoretical framework of biocultural diversity and environmental literacy. According to the identified causal mechanisms, environmental actors’ integration of biocultural diversity and application of environmental literacy supported the implementation and continuation of inclusive resiliency practices. These causal mechanisms had four purposes: to exchange knowledge, to refine resiliency practices, to procure funds, and to develop external support or partners. These four types of mechanisms led to long-term engagement and partnerships from individuals outside of each institution that helped support their resiliency efforts. These findings indicate the potential to develop inclusive resiliency practices within organizations and their socioecological systems and provide a pathway forward to create professional development opportunities that support these practices. Causal mechanisms impacted by biocultural diversity and environmental literacy aided in establishing, refining, and ensuring that inclusive resiliency practices persisted.

Identifier

FIDC011131

ORCID

0000-0003-4061-5459

Recommended Citation

Campo Rojas, Stephanie C., "Resiliency Practices in Academic Institutions: The Role of Biocultural Diversity and Environmental Literacy in Causal Mechanisms" (2023). FIU Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 5444.
https://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/etd/5444