Public participation is a research area that focuses on involving members of the public in decision-making processes that affect them. This can include government planning, policy-making, and resource allocation. The goal of public participation is to ensure that the voices and perspectives of all stakeholders are considered when making important decisions. Methods of public participation can include public hearings, community meetings, surveys, and online forums. This research area aims to improve the quality of decision-making by incorporating diverse perspectives and increasing transparency and accountability in the decision-making process.