Master_thesis

2.4 External Variables
There are two sets of exogenous variables or external perturbations that affect the constraints
and opportunities of the subsystem actors, namely; relatively stable parameters and external
dynamic system events. According to Sabatier, the first set of variables is difficult to change
and he discourages the actors from making the object of strategizing behaviour. Under the
relatively stable parameters are the factors which are:
(1) Basic attributes of the problem area;
(2) Basic distribution of natural resources;
(3) Fundamental socio-cultural values and social structure; and
(4) Basic legal structure (rules).
The second set of external variable is known to change over the course of a few years or a
decade and can be substantial (Sabatier, 1993). The following factors under the dynamic
system events are:
(1) Changes in socio-economic conditions;
(2) Changes in systemic governing coalition; and
(3) Policy decisions and impacts from other subsystems.
2.5 Policy Change
According to Sabatier (1993), policy change within a subsystem can be understood as a
product of two processes. First, advocacy coalitions within the subsystem attempt to
translate the policy cores and the secondary aspects of their belief systems into
governmental programs. Compromise among coalitions will arise in formulating programs
although there will usually be dominant coalitions and/or more minority coalitions. The
second process is one of external interference that is the effect of system-wide events,
changes in socio-economic conditions, outputs from other subsystems, and changes in the
system-wide governing coalition on the resources and constraints of subsystem actors.
2.6 Policy-Oriented Learning
Policy-oriented learning involves alteration of thoughts or behavioural intentions that result
from experience and which are concerned with the attainment or revision of the precepts of
the belief system of individuals or of collectivities. This results from experience and/or new
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