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Theories of reflexive governance are closely linked with the claim that more traditional modes of coordination have been replaced by networked structures, allowing reflexivity to emerge and reflexive learning to function as a steering mechanism in rapidly changing policy contexts. This paper explores this connection between reflexivity, governance, learning and networks in societal transitions, focusing particularly on the claim that networks will deliver reflexive learning. Using network theories from both policy networks and network governance and a case study of the Canadian agricultural biotechnology (agbiotech) policy network, it suggests that the kind of learning produced in networks will be a function of network structure. In particular, higher order reflexive learning will be compromised by the inevitability of the political struggle for nodality or central place in networks and the ensuing distribution of opportunities for bridging and bonding activities. Networks such as the Canadian agbiotech policy network that may promote learning but not necessarily reflexive learning are increasingly disadvantaged in contemporary policy settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Our aim in this project was to explore Twitter's potential as a vehicle for an online public information campaign (PIC) focused on providing evidence-based information about stem cell therapies and the market for unproven stem cell-based interventions. Methods:We designed an online, Twitter-based PIC using classic design principles and identified a set of target intermediaries (organizations with online influence) using a network governance approach. We tracked the PIC's dissemination over a 2-month period, and evaluated it using metrics from the #SMMStandards Conclave. Results: Participation was limited but the PIC achieved some reach and engagement. Conclusion: Social media based online PICs appear to have potential but also face challenges. Future research is required to better understand how to most effectively maximize their strengths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is strong evidence that gender mainstreaming (GM), a gender equality governance strategy, is performing poorly across jurisdictions. While many national and regional governments have adopted gender equality policy tools, developing and implementing an integrated GM strategy requires substantive reforms to existing procedures and institutional settings. The goal of the article is to demonstrate that, in Canada, current gender equality policy using a gender-based analysis (GBA) approach does not feature the same governance arrangement as the alternative GM approach would entail. Using the Canadian federal government as a case study, the gender equality policy instrument mix is examined to demonstrate how different problem definitions result in suboptimal performance. The article concludes that Canada’s current gender equality policy regime only advances the mainstreaming of GBA, and not the mainstreaming of gender equality in general. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Government capacity on the Web is based on external-facing e-government's online presence. The external face of e-government is what citizens, clients, customers, and partners see when they visit government Web sites. Government Web sites expand the state's capacity to collect information and affect behavior, providing opportunities to influence policy outcomes. Governments seek to be the most popular Web sites online in subject areas where the state has authority, spends money, provides information, or organizes partnerships. However, competition over users' attention diminishes government capacity, as the state must compete with global actors. This study examined government nodality on the Wed to evaluate the external face of e-government in five different Canadian policy fields: agriculture, climate change, equalization, heathcare, and women. It is argued that government Web site nodality is higher in sectors with low levels of internationalization and thus, are centralized, are more visible, and thus have a greater impact on policy development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]