Participants: UW, ISI, BIU.
Objectives:
To develop and test an integrated model based on empirical results from social psychology that can accommodate knowledge concerning known macro-level economic, cultural, and political mechanisms relevant for social and economic change. This model will incorporate empirical data on both the individual and the societal level. The model will be empirically tested against archival data set: data on spatio-temporal dynamics of economic, political, and sociological transition in Poland from centrally-controlled government to market economy.
Description of work:
We will integrate the AB model and Dynamic Social Impact model. Social interpretation will be developed for the AB model. An integrated database of social and economic data concerning Poland in the years of transition will be constructed. We will analyze the social and economic data relevant to the model of systemic transition in Poland. We will construct a computer program that will provide for visualizing and simulation of different scenarios of social change in Poland. We will conduct studies of selected cases of regional change that happened as a result of actions of social entrepreneurs. A qualitative model of local social change will be constructed as a result of this research effort.
Deliverables:
D2.1 Report describing an expanded model based on integration of AB model and Dynamic Social Impact model. Month 12.
D2.2 An integrated database of economic and social data for Poland in the years of transition, with high spatial resolution. Month 24.
D2.3 A computer program for visualization-Simulation and Polish socio-economic change. Month 36.
D2.4 A report on the results of qualitative analysis of selected cases of regional change in Poland. Month 48.
Milestones and expected result:
We will develop practical scenarios for facilitating social change and regional economic growth. We hope these scenarios can be used in practice by the administration or Non Government Organizations. The Society of Social Innovators in Poland has already expressed interest in collaboration with us. Practical application of our models in administrative decision making depends on the interest on the side of Polish government and its institutions in following advice of our simulation model. The expected result is therefore developing practical advice for administrative decisions and getting administration interested in applying them. The decision is whether to develop practical scenarios for administration or NGOS.