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  • Book
  • © 2011

Intelligent Tinkering

Bridging the Gap between Science and Practice

Authors:

  • Cabin’s experience as both an academic research ecologist and a restoration scientist/practitioner gives him the credibility and platform to discuss and critique the role of formal science in restoration
  • The main theme—role of science within the practice of ecological restoration—is a major selling point, interest is proven by an exchange of views in one of the two major journals in the field
  • Writing style and content will attract readers, especially from the practitioner part of the audience

Part of the book series: The Science and Practice of Ecological Restoration (SPER)

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Table of contents (10 chapters)

  1. Front Matter

    Pages i-xix
  2. Introduction: The Science of Restoration Ecology and the Practice of Ecological Restoration

  3. Toward a More Perfect Union

    1. Front Matter

      Pages 133-133
    2. The Science-Practice Gap

      • Robert J. Cabin
      Pages 135-153
    3. Bridging the Science-Practice Gap

      • Robert J. Cabin
      Pages 155-172
    4. Intelligent Tinkering

      • Robert J. Cabin
      Pages 173-191
  4. Back Matter

    Pages 193-216

About this book

Robert J. Cabin explores the relationship between science and practice in ecological restoration. Despite the often distinct cultures and methodologies of scientists and practitioners, Cabin shows how each has a vital role in effective restoration and offers suggestions for improving working relationships.

One approach he advocates is what he calls "intelligent tinkering," where practitioners employ the same kind of careful but informal trial-and-error strategy followed by such groups as indigenous peoples and hobbyist mechanics. Cabin illustrates the power of intelligent tinkering using examples from his own work and other restoration projects.

The gap between science and practice is a widespread problem across all fields of applied science. Intelligent Tinkering offers an insightful look at the underlying causes of the problem, along with invaluable suggestions for addressing it.

About the author

Robert J. Cabin is an associate professor of ecology and environmental science at Brevard College. Before returning to academia, he worked as a restoration ecologist for the US Forest Service and the National Tropical Botanical Garden.

Bibliographic Information

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