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Felix Kienast,
Gregor Martius,
Janet Silbernagel,
Sima Fakheran,
Loïc Pellissier,
Harini Nagendra,
Josef Senn,
Shekoufeh Nematollahi,
Thomas C. Edwards,
Marcus Mäder,
Boris Salak,
Simona Gradinaru,
and
Fabian Fopp
What is a landscape? How has it evolved? How do we perceive landscapes? What properties are required to make us feel at home?
Are you interested in these topics and want to understand how landscapes function? Then this is the course for you! We will present the discipline of Landscape Ecology, where natural and social sciences meet. You will realize how innovative and collaborative approaches used in Landscape Ecology allow land managers, planners and the public to shape landscapes for future societies.
Read more
What is a landscape? How has it evolved? How do we perceive landscapes? What properties are required to make us feel at home?
Are you interested in these topics and want to understand how landscapes function? Then this is the course for you! We will present the discipline of Landscape Ecology, where natural and social sciences meet. You will realize how innovative and collaborative approaches used in Landscape Ecology allow land managers, planners and the public to shape landscapes for future societies.
Read more
What is a landscape? How has it evolved? How do we perceive landscapes? What properties are required to make us feel at home?
Are you interested in these topics and want to understand how landscapes function? Then this is the course for you! We will present the discipline of Landscape Ecology, where natural and social sciences meet. You will realize how innovative and collaborative approaches used in Landscape Ecology allow land managers, planners and the public to shape landscapes for future societies.
We will teach you the modern tools of Landscape Ecology enabling you to address fundamental research questions. You will also get valuable practical advice in solving existing real landscape issues.
Leading Landscape Ecology professors will present case studies from around the world, highlighting tools and methods in Landscape Ecology and how they are used to solve environmental problems.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/2chg2s/landscape
What's inside
Learning objectives
- Methods for the valuation of landscapes using the ecosystem service paradigm
- How to quantify landscape attributes using landscape metrics
- Methods to assess user conflicts in ecologically sensitive landscapes
- How to use satellite data to detect landscape changes
- Philosophical aspects of landscapes, land ethics and conservation
- Theories of landscape perception and place attachment
- Ecology in the context of urban landscapes
- Statistical analysis with r
- How to work with spatial data and gis
- Methods for the valuation of landscapes using the ecosystem service paradigm
- How to quantify landscape attributes using landscape metrics
- Methods to assess user conflicts in ecologically sensitive landscapes
- How to use satellite data to detect landscape changes
- Philosophical aspects of landscapes, land ethics and conservation
- Theories of landscape perception and place attachment
- Ecology in the context of urban landscapes
- Statistical analysis with r
- How to work with spatial data and gis
Syllabus
2.6 Case Study:Urbanisationin the Maldives
2.7 Case Study: Snow on Arctic Sea Ice
Unit 1 - Landscape Ecology Foundations This unit introduces you to the definitions and important concepts of Landscape Ecology. It also explores the forces that shape our landscapes.
Read more
Syllabus
2.6 Case Study:Urbanisationin the Maldives
2.7 Case Study: Snow on Arctic Sea Ice
Unit 1 - Landscape Ecology Foundations This unit introduces you to the definitions and important concepts of Landscape Ecology. It also explores the forces that shape our landscapes.
Read more
1.1 Introduction to Landscape Ecology 1.2 Drivers of Landscape Patterns
Unit 2 - Land System ModellingThis unit focuses on quantitative assessments and the modelling of landscapes, mostly from a natural science perspective.
2.1 Theory: Landscape Modelling 2.2 Case Study: Oil Exploration and Rare Plant Conservation 2.3 Theory: Landscape Metrics 2.4 Case Study: The Impacts of Transport Infrastructure in Iran on Wildlife Habitat2.5 Theory: Remote Sensing
Unit 3 - Landscape and SocietyThis unit focuses on the socio-economic aspects of landscape science and the interface between people and the environment.
3.1 Theory: Landscape Perception 3.2 Case study: Renewable Energy and Landscape Conflicts 3.3 Theory: Ecosystem Services and Valuation 3.4 Case study: Land Ethics 3.5 Theory: Urban Ecology and Urban Green Infrastructure3.6 Case study: Urban Ecology in Bangalore
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Develops theories of landscape perception and place attachment, which are core ideas in geography and environmental studies
Teaches how to use satellite data to detect landscape changes, which is a highly relevant skill in environmental science and remote sensing
Taught by leading Landscape Ecology professors from around the world, who are recognized for their work in the field
Provides practical advice for solving existing real landscape issues, making it highly relevant to professionals in the field
Uses case studies from around the world, providing students with a global perspective on landscape ecology
Examines philosophical aspects of landscape, such as land ethics and conservation, which provides a deeper understanding of the relationship between humans and the environment
Save this course
Save Landscape Ecology to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Landscape Ecology with these
activities:
Landscape Ecology: A Widening Perspective
Show steps
Review this comprehensive textbook to gain a thorough understanding of the concepts, theories, and applications of landscape ecology, which will provide a strong foundation for the course.
Show steps
-
Read and summarize key chapters on landscape structure, function, and management.
-
Analyze case studies and examples provided in the book to understand real-world applications of landscape ecology.
Discussion on Landscape Ethics
Show steps
Engage in peer discussions on the ethical dimensions of landscape use and management, which will foster critical thinking and an understanding of diverse perspectives on landscape stewardship.
Browse courses on
Ethics
Show steps
-
Prepare by reading materials on landscape ethics and different ethical frameworks.
-
Participate actively in discussion, sharing views and perspectives on landscape ethics.
Ecosystem Services and Valuation
Show steps
Review the concept of ecosystem services and how they can be valued, as it will help improve understanding of the importance of landscapes in providing various services.
Browse courses on
Ecosystem Services
Show steps
-
Recap definitions of ecosystem services, their classification, and their importance.
-
Explore methods for valuing ecosystem services, such as market-based, cost-based, and non-market valuation techniques.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Introduction to Landscape Perception
Show steps
Explore the theories and methodologies of landscape perception, which will aid in understanding the subjective and cultural dimensions of landscapes and their impact on human well-being.
Show steps
-
Review the concept of landscape perception and its key theories, such as prospect-refuge theory and place attachment.
-
Explore methods for assessing landscape perception, such as visual preference surveys and photo elicitation.
Analyzing Landscape Metrics
Show steps
Analyze landscape metrics to gain practical experience in quantifying landscape patterns, which will enhance understanding of landscape structure and dynamics.
Show steps
-
Familiarize yourself with different types of landscape metrics, such as patch size, shape, and connectivity.
-
Use GIS software or online tools to calculate landscape metrics for a given landscape.
-
Interpret the results and discuss the implications for landscape management and planning.
Infographic on Sustainable Landscape Management
Show steps
Create a visually appealing infographic that summarizes the key principles and practices of sustainable landscape management, reinforcing understanding of its importance for environmental stewardship.
Show steps
-
Research and gather information on best practices in sustainable landscape management.
-
Design a visually engaging infographic that clearly presents the key principles and practices.
Participate in a Landscape Restoration Project
Show steps
Engage in a hands-on landscape restoration project, applying knowledge of landscape ecology principles to contribute to the restoration and conservation of natural ecosystems.
Browse courses on
Landscape Restoration
Show steps
-
Contact local conservation organizations or agencies involved in landscape restoration.
-
Participate in restoration activities, such as planting native species, removing invasive plants, or restoring wildlife habitat.
Landscape Ecology: A Widening Perspective
Show steps
Review this comprehensive textbook to gain a thorough understanding of the concepts, theories, and applications of landscape ecology, which will provide a strong foundation for the course.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read and summarize key chapters on landscape structure, function, and management.
- Analyze case studies and examples provided in the book to understand real-world applications of landscape ecology.
Discussion on Landscape Ethics
Show steps
Engage in peer discussions on the ethical dimensions of landscape use and management, which will foster critical thinking and an understanding of diverse perspectives on landscape stewardship.
Browse courses on
Ethics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Prepare by reading materials on landscape ethics and different ethical frameworks.
- Participate actively in discussion, sharing views and perspectives on landscape ethics.
Ecosystem Services and Valuation
Show steps
Review the concept of ecosystem services and how they can be valued, as it will help improve understanding of the importance of landscapes in providing various services.
Browse courses on
Ecosystem Services
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Recap definitions of ecosystem services, their classification, and their importance.
- Explore methods for valuing ecosystem services, such as market-based, cost-based, and non-market valuation techniques.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Introduction to Landscape Perception
Show steps
Explore the theories and methodologies of landscape perception, which will aid in understanding the subjective and cultural dimensions of landscapes and their impact on human well-being.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the concept of landscape perception and its key theories, such as prospect-refuge theory and place attachment.
- Explore methods for assessing landscape perception, such as visual preference surveys and photo elicitation.
Analyzing Landscape Metrics
Show steps
Analyze landscape metrics to gain practical experience in quantifying landscape patterns, which will enhance understanding of landscape structure and dynamics.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Familiarize yourself with different types of landscape metrics, such as patch size, shape, and connectivity.
- Use GIS software or online tools to calculate landscape metrics for a given landscape.
- Interpret the results and discuss the implications for landscape management and planning.
Infographic on Sustainable Landscape Management
Show steps
Create a visually appealing infographic that summarizes the key principles and practices of sustainable landscape management, reinforcing understanding of its importance for environmental stewardship.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and gather information on best practices in sustainable landscape management.
- Design a visually engaging infographic that clearly presents the key principles and practices.
Participate in a Landscape Restoration Project
Show steps
Engage in a hands-on landscape restoration project, applying knowledge of landscape ecology principles to contribute to the restoration and conservation of natural ecosystems.
Browse courses on
Landscape Restoration
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Contact local conservation organizations or agencies involved in landscape restoration.
- Participate in restoration activities, such as planting native species, removing invasive plants, or restoring wildlife habitat.
Career center
Learners who complete Landscape Ecology will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Landscape Architect
Landscape Architect
Landscape Architects design, plan, and manage the development and use of land and water resources. Graduates who take this course will be well-prepared to understand the principles of landscape ecology and how they can be applied to design sustainable landscapes. The course will provide a foundation in landscape planning, assessment, and management, and will help students develop the skills necessary to design and implement landscape projects that meet the needs of both people and the environment.
Conservation Scientist
Conservation Scientist
Conservation Scientists study the natural world and develop strategies to protect and conserve natural resources. Graduates who take this course will gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles of landscape ecology and how they can be applied to conservation planning and management. The course will provide a foundation in conservation biology, ecology, and landscape planning, and will help students develop the skills necessary to design and implement conservation projects that protect biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Environmental Planner
Environmental Planner
Environmental Planners develop and implement plans to protect and improve the environment. Graduates who take this course will gain a strong understanding of the principles of landscape ecology and how they can be applied to environmental planning and management. The course will provide a foundation in environmental science, planning, and policy, and will help students develop the skills necessary to design and implement environmental plans that protect human health and the environment.
Geographer
Geographer
Geographers study the Earth's surface and its human and natural inhabitants. Graduates who take this course will gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles of landscape ecology and how they can be applied to geographic research. The course will provide a foundation in geography, ecology, and spatial analysis, and will help students develop the skills necessary to conduct geographic research that addresses environmental and social issues.
Natural Resource Manager
Natural Resource Manager
Natural Resource Managers oversee the management and conservation of natural resources such as forests, water, and wildlife. Graduates who take this course will gain a strong understanding of the principles of landscape ecology and how they can be applied to natural resource management. The course will provide a foundation in ecology, natural resource management, and policy, and will help students develop the skills necessary to manage natural resources sustainably.
Urban Planner
Urban Planner
Urban Planners design and plan the development of cities and towns. Graduates who take this course will gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles of landscape ecology and how they can be applied to urban planning and design. The course will provide a foundation in urban planning, ecology, and design, and will help students develop the skills necessary to design and implement urban plans that create sustainable and livable communities.
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife Biologists study the behavior, ecology, and conservation of wildlife. Graduates who take this course will gain a strong understanding of the principles of landscape ecology and how they can be applied to wildlife conservation. The course will provide a foundation in wildlife biology, ecology, and conservation, and will help students develop the skills necessary to conduct wildlife research and conservation projects.
Botanist
Botanist
Botanists study the biology of plants. Graduates who take this course will gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles of landscape ecology and how they can be applied to plant ecology and conservation. The course will provide a foundation in plant biology, ecology, and conservation, and will help students develop the skills necessary to conduct plant research and conservation projects.
Ecologist
Ecologist
Ecologists study the interactions between organisms and their environment. Graduates who take this course will gain a strong understanding of the principles of landscape ecology and how they can be applied to ecological research. The course will provide a foundation in ecology, environmental science, and research methods, and will help students develop the skills necessary to conduct ecological research and conservation projects.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists study the environment and its interactions with human activities. Graduates who take this course will gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles of landscape ecology and how they can be applied to environmental science and policy. The course will provide a foundation in environmental science, policy, and research methods, and will help students develop the skills necessary to conduct environmental research and policy analysis.
Geologist
Geologist
Geologists study the Earth's materials, structure, and history. Graduates who take this course will gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles of landscape ecology and how they can be applied to geology. The course will provide a foundation in geology, ecology, and environmental science, and will help students develop the skills necessary to conduct geological research and environmental impact assessments.
Hydrologist
Hydrologist
Hydrologists study the movement and distribution of water on the Earth's surface and in the ground. Graduates who take this course will gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles of landscape ecology and how they can be applied to hydrology. The course will provide a foundation in hydrology, ecology, and environmental science, and will help students develop the skills necessary to conduct hydrological research and water resource management.
Soil Scientist
Soil Scientist
Soil Scientists study the properties and behavior of soils. Graduates who take this course will gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles of landscape ecology and how they can be applied to soil science. The course will provide a foundation in soil science, ecology, and environmental science, and will help students develop the skills necessary to conduct soil research and land management.
Oceanographer
Oceanographer
Oceanographers study the oceans and their interactions with the Earth's atmosphere and land. Graduates who take this course will gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles of landscape ecology and how they can be applied to oceanography. The course will provide a foundation in oceanography, ecology, and environmental science, and will help students develop the skills necessary to conduct oceanographic research and marine resource management.
Meteorologist
Meteorologist
Meteorologists study the atmosphere and its interactions with the Earth's surface. Graduates who take this course will gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles of landscape ecology and how they can be applied to meteorology. The course will provide a foundation in meteorology, ecology, and environmental science, and will help students develop the skills necessary to conduct meteorological research and weather forecasting.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/2chg2s/landscape
Reading list
We've selected eight books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Landscape Ecology.
Provides an introduction to the principles and methods of landscape ecology, covering topics such as landscape structure, function, and change. It valuable reference for students and professionals in the field.
Save
Provides an introduction to the principles of landscape ecology and their application to land-use planning and design. It valuable resource for students and professionals in the field.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of remote sensing and image interpretation. It covers a wide range of topics, including data acquisition, analysis, and visualization.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of cultural landscape geography. It covers a wide range of topics, including the history of cultural landscapes, the cultural construction of landscapes, and the role of landscapes in human culture.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of environmental science. It covers a wide range of topics, including the environment, the human impact on the environment, and the challenges of environmental sustainability.
Provides an historical overview of the five previous mass extinctions on Earth, and discusses the potential for a sixth mass extinction in the near future.
Save
Classic work of environmental literature that helped to launch the modern environmental movement. It documents the harmful effects of pesticides on the environment and human health.
Explores the implications of climate change for the natural world and human society. It argues that climate change threat to the very fabric of nature and that we must take action to address it.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/2chg2s/landscape
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Effort
2 to 4 hours per week for 14 weeks
Level
Intermediate
Via
edX
Institution
ETH Zurich
Instructors
Felix Kienast
Gregor Martius
Janet Silbernagel
Sima Fakheran
Loïc Pellissier
Harini Nagendra
Josef Senn
Shekoufeh Nematollahi
Thomas C. Edwards
Marcus Mäder
Boris Salak
Simona Gradinaru
Fabian Fopp
Language
English
Transcript
English
Good to know
Develops theories of landscape perception and place attachment, which are core ideas in geography and environmental studies
Teaches how to use satellite data to detect landscape changes, which is a highly relevant skill in environmental science and remote sensing
Taught by leading Landscape Ecology professors from around the world, who are recognized for their work in the field
Provides practical advice for solving existing real landscape issues, making it highly relevant to professionals in the field
Uses case studies from around the world, providing students with a global perspective on landscape ecology
Examines philosophical aspects of landscape, such as land ethics and conservation, which provides a deeper understanding of the relationship between humans and the environment
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