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Anita Raimondi
The MOOC “Sustainable Urban Water Systems” aims to provide knowledge about modern and sustainable solutions for urban water management in water-sensitive cities. The focus is on stormwater control and water supply strategies for the mitigation of effects on the water cycles due to human settlements and climate change. In particular, the integration of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) into urban drainage systems, the use of alternative water resources, and the reduction of losses and waste, make cities more resilient and add benefits to both the environment and community.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/52ml86/sustainable
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What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction to the course
The Water Cycle in Urban Areas: Natural Processes and Human Activities
Water Sensitive Cities: Increasing Resilience to Evolutionary Risks
Read more
Syllabus
Introduction to the course
The Water Cycle in Urban Areas: Natural Processes and Human Activities
Water Sensitive Cities: Increasing Resilience to Evolutionary Risks
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Suitable for learners who have backgrounds in urban planning and a passion for sustainable infrastructure
Taught by Anita Raimondi, a leading expert in sustainable urban water systems
Provides insights into modern stormwater control measures and alternative water resources
Emphasizes the integration of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) into urban drainage systems
Covers the Water Cycle in Urban Areas, Water Sensitive Cities, and Sustainable Water Supply Strategies, providing a comprehensive understanding of the subject
Requires learners to have basic knowledge of urban water management and hydraulics
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Reviews summary
Sustainable urban water management principles
According to learners, this course offers a strong foundation in sustainable urban water systems and the concept of Water Sensitive Cities. Many found the content to be highly relevant and well-structured, particularly praising the clear explanations and the integration of Nature-based Solutions (NbS). The course is often cited as a valuable starting point for understanding modern water management. While the lectures are generally well-received, some recent feedback suggests a potential need for more practical application examples or updated case studies to keep pace with evolving practices.
Excellent for beginners but may lack depth for advanced learners.
"As someone just entering this field, I found it perfectly paced and highly informative."
"This course is a great starting point, but I'll need to seek out more advanced materials for deeper dives."
"I appreciated the foundational knowledge, but some parts felt a bit superficial for my existing background."
The teaching style and delivery of information are effective.
"The lectures were engaging and held my attention throughout the course."
"I found the instructor's delivery to be very clear and professional."
"The video quality and presentation were top-notch, which helped with learning."
Covers highly relevant topics for contemporary urban challenges.
"This course truly addresses current global challenges related to climate change and urbanization in water management."
"The focus on Nature-based Solutions felt very timely and essential for today's urban planning."
"I believe the strategies discussed are highly applicable to real-world scenarios facing many cities."
The explanations are easy to follow and concepts are well-articulated.
"The instructor did an excellent job explaining complex concepts in a clear and concise manner."
"I really appreciated how well the information was organized and presented."
"The course content was very easy to digest, even for someone new to some of these topics."
Provides a solid foundation in sustainable urban water management.
"I found the course to be a great introduction to the principles of sustainable urban water systems."
"It provided a comprehensive overview of water-sensitive cities and modern solutions for urban water management."
"I now have a much clearer understanding of Nature-based Solutions and their role in urban drainage."
Could benefit from more real-world applications and case studies.
"I wish there were more practical examples or case studies to illustrate the concepts in action."
"While the theory was strong, I sometimes felt a need for more 'how-to' or implementation details."
"More recent applications of the principles would make the course even more impactful, especially for professionals."
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 Sustainable Urban Water Systems with these
activities:
Review Water Quality Parameters
Show steps
Refreshing your knowledge of water quality parameters will help you understand the impacts of stormwater runoff on water resources.
Browse courses on
Water Quality
Show steps
-
Review basic water quality parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen, and turbidity.
-
Understand the sources and effects of common water quality pollutants.
Calculate Stormwater Runoff
Show steps
Practicing calculations will improve your proficiency in estimating stormwater runoff, a crucial aspect of stormwater management.
Browse courses on
Hydrology
Show steps
-
Gather data on rainfall intensity, catchment area, and impervious surface.
-
Use the Rational Method or other appropriate formula to calculate runoff.
Review course prerequisite materials
Show steps
Reviewing course prerequisite materials in advance will prepare you for success in this course by reinforcing your understanding of fundamental concepts and techniques.
Show steps
-
Review your notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams from prerequisite courses.
-
Take practice questions and problems to assess your current level of understanding.
17 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 20 activities
Review course syllabus
Show steps
Gives a high-level overview of the course and identifies any foundational topics that may need review.
Show steps
-
Read the course syllabus
-
Identify unfamiliar concepts or prerequisites
-
Research or review unfamiliar concepts
Explore Green Infrastructure Techniques
Show steps
Familiarizing yourself with green infrastructure can enhance your understanding of alternative water management approaches.
Browse courses on
Green Infrastructure
Show steps
-
Browse online resources, such as the Green Infrastructure Center or the EPA's Green Infrastructure Toolkit.
-
Attend workshops or webinars on green infrastructure.
-
Visit local projects that showcase green infrastructure techniques.
Review concepts of hydrology and hydraulics
Show steps
Refresh your understanding of the fundamental concepts of hydrology and hydraulics to strengthen your foundation for this course.
Browse courses on
Hydrology
Show steps
-
Review notes from previous courses or textbooks.
-
Solve practice problems.
Solve online quizzes on urban water management
Show steps
Test your understanding of key concepts through interactive quizzes.
Show steps
-
Find online quizzes or question banks related to urban water management
-
Attempt the quizzes and review your answers
-
Identify areas where you need further clarification
Watch videos on sustainable urban water management
Show steps
Watch videos to enhance your understanding of sustainable water management and its practical applications.
Show steps
-
Search for videos on YouTube or online repositories
-
Select videos that cover topics relevant to the course
-
Take notes and summarize key concepts discussed in the videos
Review Stormwater Management Projects
Show steps
Examining existing projects can provide valuable insights into the practical applications of stormwater management strategies.
Show steps
-
Identify stormwater management projects in your area or online.
-
Review project documents, such as project plans, reports, and case studies.
-
Analyze the project's objectives, design, and implementation.
-
Evaluate the project's effectiveness and impact on the environment and community.
Complete the supplementary readings
Show steps
The supplementary materials provide additional insights and perspectives on the topics covered in the course, enriching your understanding and broadening your knowledge base.
Show steps
-
Locate the supplementary readings provided by the instructor.
-
Read and take notes on the supplementary materials, highlighting key concepts and ideas.
-
Summarize the main points of the readings in your own words.
Form a study group
Show steps
Forming a study group with classmates allows you to engage in collaborative learning, share perspectives, and support each other's understanding of the material.
Show steps
-
Find classmates who are interested in studying together.
-
Establish a regular meeting schedule and location.
-
Take turns leading discussions, presenting concepts, and working through problems.
Explore virtual water resources
Show steps
Provides an interactive and practical way to understand the design and management of sustainable water resources.
Show steps
-
Identify virtual simulations of water resource systems
-
Follow guided tutorials to explore the simulations
-
Experiment with different parameters and scenarios
-
Analyze and interpret the results
Join a study group for the course
Show steps
Collaborate with peers to discuss course materials, clarify concepts, and reinforce understanding.
Show steps
-
Find classmates who are also taking the course
-
Schedule regular study sessions
-
Take turns leading discussions and presenting on assigned topics
-
Use online tools or video conferencing for remote sessions
Solve practice problems from the textbook
Show steps
Solving practice problems from the textbook reinforces your understanding of the concepts covered in the course and helps you develop problem-solving skills.
Show steps
-
Identify the practice problems assigned by the instructor or recommended in the textbook.
-
Attempt to solve the problems on your own without referring to solutions.
-
Check your solutions against the provided answers or discuss them with classmates or the instructor.
Explore the open-source software used in the course
Show steps
Exploring the open-source software used in the course provides hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of the tools and techniques employed in the field.
Show steps
-
Identify the open-source software used in the course.
-
Download and install the software.
-
Follow tutorials or documentation to learn about the software's features and functionality.
Design a Stormwater Management Plan
Show steps
Developing a plan will reinforce your understanding of stormwater management principles and practical considerations.
Browse courses on
Water Cycle
Show steps
-
Identify the target site for your plan.
-
Collect data on the site's hydrology, topography, and land use.
-
Develop a range of stormwater management strategies.
-
Evaluate the strategies based on their effectiveness, cost, and environmental impact.
-
Create a detailed plan that includes a description of the strategies, implementation schedule, and monitoring plan.
Design a rainwater harvesting system
Show steps
Encourages students to apply the principles of sustainable urban water management to a practical problem.
Show steps
-
Select a suitable site and determine water demand
-
Design the rainwater harvesting system components (e.g., collection, storage, treatment)
-
Estimate the system's capacity and performance
-
Consider environmental and sustainability factors
Create a Water Resources Portfolio
Show steps
Assembling a portfolio can help you organize and consolidate your knowledge and skills in water resources management.
Browse courses on
Water Resources
Show steps
-
Collect course materials, such as lecture notes, assignments, and projects.
-
Include relevant articles, research papers, or reports.
-
Develop a table of contents or index to organize the materials.
Connect with professionals in the field
Show steps
Establishing connections with professionals in the field provides valuable insights, guidance, and networking opportunities that can enhance your understanding and career prospects.
Show steps
-
Identify professionals in the field who work in areas relevant to your interests.
-
Reach out via email, LinkedIn, or other professional networking platforms.
-
Request informational interviews or mentorship opportunities.
Design a prototype of a sustainable urban water system
Show steps
Designing a prototype of a sustainable urban water system allows you to apply the concepts and principles learned in the course to a real-world scenario, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills.
Show steps
-
Define the requirements and constraints of the sustainable urban water system.
-
Research and explore different design options.
-
Create a detailed design proposal outlining the components, processes, and operation of your prototype.
Review Water Quality Parameters
Show steps
Refreshing your knowledge of water quality parameters will help you understand the impacts of stormwater runoff on water resources.
Browse courses on
Water Quality
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review basic water quality parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen, and turbidity.
- Understand the sources and effects of common water quality pollutants.
Calculate Stormwater Runoff
Show steps
Practicing calculations will improve your proficiency in estimating stormwater runoff, a crucial aspect of stormwater management.
Browse courses on
Hydrology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather data on rainfall intensity, catchment area, and impervious surface.
- Use the Rational Method or other appropriate formula to calculate runoff.
Review course prerequisite materials
Show steps
Reviewing course prerequisite materials in advance will prepare you for success in this course by reinforcing your understanding of fundamental concepts and techniques.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review your notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams from prerequisite courses.
- Take practice questions and problems to assess your current level of understanding.
17 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 20 activities
Review course syllabus
Show steps
Gives a high-level overview of the course and identifies any foundational topics that may need review.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the course syllabus
- Identify unfamiliar concepts or prerequisites
- Research or review unfamiliar concepts
Explore Green Infrastructure Techniques
Show steps
Familiarizing yourself with green infrastructure can enhance your understanding of alternative water management approaches.
Browse courses on
Green Infrastructure
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Browse online resources, such as the Green Infrastructure Center or the EPA's Green Infrastructure Toolkit.
- Attend workshops or webinars on green infrastructure.
- Visit local projects that showcase green infrastructure techniques.
Review concepts of hydrology and hydraulics
Show steps
Refresh your understanding of the fundamental concepts of hydrology and hydraulics to strengthen your foundation for this course.
Browse courses on
Hydrology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review notes from previous courses or textbooks.
- Solve practice problems.
Solve online quizzes on urban water management
Show steps
Test your understanding of key concepts through interactive quizzes.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find online quizzes or question banks related to urban water management
- Attempt the quizzes and review your answers
- Identify areas where you need further clarification
Watch videos on sustainable urban water management
Show steps
Watch videos to enhance your understanding of sustainable water management and its practical applications.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for videos on YouTube or online repositories
- Select videos that cover topics relevant to the course
- Take notes and summarize key concepts discussed in the videos
Review Stormwater Management Projects
Show steps
Examining existing projects can provide valuable insights into the practical applications of stormwater management strategies.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify stormwater management projects in your area or online.
- Review project documents, such as project plans, reports, and case studies.
- Analyze the project's objectives, design, and implementation.
- Evaluate the project's effectiveness and impact on the environment and community.
Complete the supplementary readings
Show steps
The supplementary materials provide additional insights and perspectives on the topics covered in the course, enriching your understanding and broadening your knowledge base.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Locate the supplementary readings provided by the instructor.
- Read and take notes on the supplementary materials, highlighting key concepts and ideas.
- Summarize the main points of the readings in your own words.
Form a study group
Show steps
Forming a study group with classmates allows you to engage in collaborative learning, share perspectives, and support each other's understanding of the material.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find classmates who are interested in studying together.
- Establish a regular meeting schedule and location.
- Take turns leading discussions, presenting concepts, and working through problems.
Explore virtual water resources
Show steps
Provides an interactive and practical way to understand the design and management of sustainable water resources.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify virtual simulations of water resource systems
- Follow guided tutorials to explore the simulations
- Experiment with different parameters and scenarios
- Analyze and interpret the results
Join a study group for the course
Show steps
Collaborate with peers to discuss course materials, clarify concepts, and reinforce understanding.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find classmates who are also taking the course
- Schedule regular study sessions
- Take turns leading discussions and presenting on assigned topics
- Use online tools or video conferencing for remote sessions
Solve practice problems from the textbook
Show steps
Solving practice problems from the textbook reinforces your understanding of the concepts covered in the course and helps you develop problem-solving skills.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the practice problems assigned by the instructor or recommended in the textbook.
- Attempt to solve the problems on your own without referring to solutions.
- Check your solutions against the provided answers or discuss them with classmates or the instructor.
Explore the open-source software used in the course
Show steps
Exploring the open-source software used in the course provides hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of the tools and techniques employed in the field.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the open-source software used in the course.
- Download and install the software.
- Follow tutorials or documentation to learn about the software's features and functionality.
Design a Stormwater Management Plan
Show steps
Developing a plan will reinforce your understanding of stormwater management principles and practical considerations.
Browse courses on
Water Cycle
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the target site for your plan.
- Collect data on the site's hydrology, topography, and land use.
- Develop a range of stormwater management strategies.
- Evaluate the strategies based on their effectiveness, cost, and environmental impact.
- Create a detailed plan that includes a description of the strategies, implementation schedule, and monitoring plan.
Design a rainwater harvesting system
Show steps
Encourages students to apply the principles of sustainable urban water management to a practical problem.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select a suitable site and determine water demand
- Design the rainwater harvesting system components (e.g., collection, storage, treatment)
- Estimate the system's capacity and performance
- Consider environmental and sustainability factors
Create a Water Resources Portfolio
Show steps
Assembling a portfolio can help you organize and consolidate your knowledge and skills in water resources management.
Browse courses on
Water Resources
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Collect course materials, such as lecture notes, assignments, and projects.
- Include relevant articles, research papers, or reports.
- Develop a table of contents or index to organize the materials.
Connect with professionals in the field
Show steps
Establishing connections with professionals in the field provides valuable insights, guidance, and networking opportunities that can enhance your understanding and career prospects.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify professionals in the field who work in areas relevant to your interests.
- Reach out via email, LinkedIn, or other professional networking platforms.
- Request informational interviews or mentorship opportunities.
Design a prototype of a sustainable urban water system
Show steps
Designing a prototype of a sustainable urban water system allows you to apply the concepts and principles learned in the course to a real-world scenario, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Define the requirements and constraints of the sustainable urban water system.
- Research and explore different design options.
- Create a detailed design proposal outlining the components, processes, and operation of your prototype.
Career center
Learners who complete Sustainable Urban Water Systems will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Water Resource Engineer
Water Resource Engineer
Water Resource Engineers design, build, and operate systems to manage water resources. They work to ensure that there is a reliable supply of clean water for drinking, irrigation, and other purposes. This course will help Water Resource Engineers understand how to manage water resources in urban areas, including how to design and build sustainable water supply systems. The projects and case studies that this course will introduce the learner to will be very valuable preparation for the work of a Water Resource Engineer.
Hydrologist
Hydrologist
Hydrologists study the movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. They work to understand how water resources can be managed to meet the needs of humans and the environment. This course will help Hydrologists understand how to manage water resources in urban areas, including how to design and build sustainable water supply systems.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers design, build, and operate systems to protect the environment. They work to reduce pollution and improve air and water quality. This course will help Environmental Engineers understand how to manage water resources in urban areas, including how to design and build sustainable water supply systems.
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineers design, build, and maintain infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings. They also work on water resource projects, such as dams and reservoirs. This course will help Civil Engineers understand how to design and build sustainable water supply systems. The projects and case studies that this course will introduce the learner to will be very valuable preparation for the work of a Civil Engineer.
Water Conservation Specialist
Water Conservation Specialist
Water Conservation Specialists develop and implement programs to conserve water. They work to reduce water use and protect water resources. This course will help Water Conservation Specialists understand how to manage water resources in urban areas, including how to design and build sustainable water supply systems.
Water Quality Specialist
Water Quality Specialist
Water Quality Specialists monitor and assess the quality of water. They work to ensure that water is safe for drinking, swimming, and other uses. This course will help Water Quality Specialists understand how to manage water resources in urban areas, including how to design and build sustainable water supply systems.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists study the environment and its components. They work to understand how the environment can be protected and restored. This course may be useful for Environmental Scientists who want to learn more about how to manage water resources in urban areas, including how to design and build sustainable water supply systems.
Geographer
Geographer
Geographers study the Earth and its people. They work to understand how the Earth's physical and human systems interact. This course may be useful for Geographers who want to learn more about how to manage water resources in urban areas, including how to design and build sustainable water supply systems.
Water Treatment Plant Operator
Water Treatment Plant Operator
Water Treatment Plant Operators operate and maintain water treatment plants. They work to ensure that water is safe for drinking. This course may be useful for Water Treatment Plant Operators who want to learn more about how to manage water resources in urban areas, including how to design and build sustainable water supply systems.
Meteorologist
Meteorologist
Meteorologists study the atmosphere and its weather patterns. They work to understand how the weather affects the environment and human activities. This course may be useful for Meteorologists who want to learn more about how to manage water resources in urban areas, including how to design and build sustainable water supply systems.
Soil Scientist
Soil Scientist
Soil Scientists study the soil and its properties. They work to understand how the soil can be used to support plant growth and other human activities. This course may be useful for Soil Scientists who want to learn more about how to manage water resources in urban areas, including how to design and build sustainable water supply systems.
Oceanographer
Oceanographer
Oceanographers study the oceans and their resources. They work to understand how the oceans affect the environment and human activities. This course may be useful for Oceanographers who want to learn more about how to manage water resources in urban areas, including how to design and build sustainable water supply systems.
Urban Planner
Urban Planner
Urban Planners design and plan the use of land in urban areas. They work to create livable, sustainable, and prosperous communities. This course will help Urban Planners understand how to manage water resources in urban areas, including how to design and build sustainable water supply systems.
Architect
Architect
Architects design and plan buildings and other structures. They work to create beautiful, functional, and sustainable buildings. This course may be useful for Architects who want to learn more about how to manage water resources in urban areas, including how to design and build sustainable water supply systems.
Landscape Architect
Landscape Architect
Landscape Architects design and plan outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, and campuses. They work to create beautiful, functional, and sustainable landscapes. This course may be useful for Landscape Architects who want to learn more about how to manage water resources in urban areas, including how to design and build sustainable water supply systems.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/52ml86/sustainable
Reading list
We've selected seven 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
Sustainable Urban Water Systems.
This manual provides criteria and guidelines for the design of urban storm drainage systems. It valuable reference for understanding the practical considerations involved in stormwater management.
This comprehensive handbook provides a thorough overview of hydrology, including surface water, groundwater, and watershed management. It serves as a useful reference for understanding the hydrological principles discussed in the course.
Explores the potential of nature-based solutions for managing urban water resources. It provides practical guidance on how to design, implement, and evaluate nature-based solutions for a variety of urban water challenges.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of groundwater science principles and practices. It covers a wide range of topics, from groundwater hydrology and hydraulics to groundwater quality and environmental impacts.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of environmental engineering principles and practices. It covers a wide range of topics, from air pollution control to water pollution control to solid waste management.
Save
Explores the concept of resilience in the context of complex systems. It provides insights into how to build resilience in social-ecological systems, including urban water systems.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of urban stormwater management principles and practices. It covers a wide range of topics, from stormwater hydrology and hydraulics to stormwater quality and environmental impacts.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/52ml86/sustainable
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