Multilevel Engagement: Theory and Practice Integration

Chapter 3 begins by acknowledging that the pursuit of SME green skill enhancement needs to be based on collaborative action brought about through multilevel engagement. It goes on to document the design and delivery of a web-based collaborative space incorporating a virtual learning environment with an electronic discussion board, bulletin board and regular network updates, which operates alongside live interventions to optimise multilevel stakeholder contributory action and initiate relationships within and between regional SMEs and their communities. A series of GIFT case studies ‘brings to life’ the resultant interactions and activities which facilitate the exchange of experiences, resulting in regional SME connectivity with providers of specialist knowledge, beyond network, regional and national boundaries.