Social Ecosystem Framework 2.0 

Social Ecosystem Model (SEM)

 

This webpage explores the evolution of the Social Ecosystem Model (SEM) to a wider Socio-Political Framework.  SEM is a theoretical framework originally designed to guide the creation of inclusive systems of vocational education and training and sustainable communities. The first iteration of the Model moved beyond a metaphorical use of ecological concepts to propose a multi-level theory-based social ecosystem approach to conceptualise the development of place-based Vocational Education and Training (VET).  The 1.0 model relates the realms of 'Working, Living, and Learning' that links VET to the inclusive development of urban spaces.  The 2.0 Framework expands the multi-level spatial approach to include the political economy dimensions of verticalities, horizontalities and 45-degree mediation to address complex global challenges of inequality and climate change in support of progressive transitioning, including the fundamental concept of the Just Transition.

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Two phases of development - from SEM 1.0 to 2.0

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The development of the SEM has evolved through two phases.

 

SEM 1.0

 

The first phase evolved from merging spatial adaptations of Bronfenbrenner's human ecological systems with Finegold's high skills ecosystems approach. This model was applied to vocational education and training (VET) in England, advocating for a shift from a top-down, market-driven approach to a devolved, place-based one. This phase also introduced the 'Working, Living, and Learning Nexus,' which expands on the skills ecosystems concept to include a focus on affordable housing, transport, and local services.  It critiques 'elite entrepreneurial ecosystems' (FinTech) and promotes a more inclusive form of economic growth that benefits a wider range of the population, including those in the 'foundational economy'.

 

​Figure 1. SEM 2.0 framework

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SEM 2.0

 

This second phase broadened the framework to include a '45-degree political economy and ecology framework'. This evolution aimed to address the initial limitations of SEM 1.0 by incorporating a more explicit political economy analysis and recognizing the potentially assistive role of both civil society and the state.

 

SEM 2.0 was defined by four dimensions:

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Collaborative Civil Society Horizontalities - focuses on local, collaborative activities within civil society, such as networks, anchor institutions, workplaces, and communities. These horizontal forces are seen as the optimal terrain for social activity and innovation. 

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Facilitating State Verticalities - refers to the enabling role of the national and local state. This dimension acknowledges that a progressive state can strategically invest and devolve power to local governments and citizens, thereby rebalancing national and local relationships that may have been marginalized by neoliberal policies.

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45-Degree Mediation - acts as a bridge between the horizontal and vertical dimensions. This concept involves "acting on and reforming 'verticalities'" while "organising and mobilising 'horizontalities' across civil society". 

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Ecological Time - highlights the evolutionary nature of the framework itself. It emphasizes that the SEM is not a static model, but rather a system that evolves through holistic and deliberative processes. This comprehensive approach positions SEM 2.0 as a guide for societal transitioning by intentionally connecting the political and economic spheres to the ecological and social dimensions of community development.

 

This enhanced model aims to facilitate a sustainable and equitable 'Just Transition' and moves beyond a purely network-based approach to include the strategic role of government and the exercise of power.

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