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Coen J. Ritsema,
Michel Riksen,
and
Jerry Maroulis
This introductory environmental studies course will explore the importance of soil to life on earth, the issues, processes and societal challenges underlying soil degradation – and what can be done to ensure sustainable soil management for the future. The threats to our soil span deforestation, erosion, overgrazing, use of agrochemicals, compaction, pollution and climate change. Learn what you can do to make a difference in protecting this vital natural resource.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/cieopw/sustainable
What's inside
Learning objectives
- Understand that soils and sustainable soil management are critically important to life on earth.
- Appreciate how soils form, their functions and basics of soil degradation.
- Recognize the threats to and how to care for soil water relations, soil fertility and soil biodiversity.
- Investigate the effects of and solutions for soil erosion, soil compaction, soil pollution and soil salinization.
- Comprehend the socio-economic and policy aspects of sustainable soil management.
- Contribute to discussions and guided-activities about how we all can help protect soil for life.
- After successful completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Understand that soils and sustainable soil management are critically important to life on earth.
- Appreciate how soils form, their functions and basics of soil degradation.
- Recognize the threats to and how to care for soil water relations, soil fertility and soil biodiversity.
- Investigate the effects of and solutions for soil erosion, soil compaction, soil pollution and soil salinization.
- Comprehend the socio-economic and policy aspects of sustainable soil management.
- Contribute to discussions and guided-activities about how we all can help protect soil for life.
- After successful completion of this course, you will be able to:
Syllabus
The MOOC Sustainable Soil Management: Soil for life consists of 11 modules with a study load of about 8 hours per module. Modules 1, 2, 3, 4, 10 and 11 are obligatory for the Verified Certificate. You must also complete two of the _ elective modules _ 5 to 9.
Read more
Syllabus
The MOOC Sustainable Soil Management: Soil for life consists of 11 modules with a study load of about 8 hours per module. Modules 1, 2, 3, 4, 10 and 11 are obligatory for the Verified Certificate. You must also complete two of the _ elective modules _ 5 to 9.
Read more
1 Soil formation, functions and threatsLearn about soil functions, soil formation processes and the main soil threats worldwide. You will also learn and practice some soil classification skills.
2 Soil water processesDiscover the importance of soil-water interactions and causes and consequences of reduced soil wettability, compaction and soil sealing. Do at home projects to see these soil threats in your own surroundings.
3 Dynamics of soil fertilityLearn what determines soil fertility, the importance of soil organic matter, and the causes and effects of soil fertility loss and nutrient surpluses and deficits. Start your own experiment and observe the effects of soil nutrients on plant growth.
4 Loss of soil biodiversityDiscover how important soil biodiversity is for soil functions, and learn how to prevent and resolve its loss. Get outside and discover the rich life under your feet using some simple tests!
5 Water erosionLearn about water erosion, its effects on soil functions, and explore ways to prevent and resolve this threat. You also get to investigate water erosion characteristics in your own environment.
6 Wind erosionLearn about wind erosion, its effects on soil functions, and ways to prevent and resolve it. Build your own mini wind tunnel to test theerodibilityof some soils and explore the effectiveness of some counter measures.
7 Soil compaction Discover how compaction of soils in agriculture is a threat to soil function. Learn of measures aimed at the prevention, amelioration, and/or impact alleviation of compacted soils.
8 Soil pollutionDiscover the major sources and concerns about soil pollution, how pollutants behave in soil and some soil remediation techniques. Visit a farm/garden store to discover what chemicals are used in your environment.
9 Soil salinizationLearn about the process of salinization, its effects, and how to manage it. Engage in Dr. Ritzema's experiment to discover the impacts of salt on soils and plants.
10 Achieving sustainable soil managementSee how human factors and analysis techniques affect soil management decisions. Play the African Highland Farmer Game to experience the challenges in sustainably managing your own plot of land. Share sustainable land management approaches in your country.
11 Final examWith all you have learned about soil, soil degradation and sustainable soil management, it's time to synthesize the information into your own case study!
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Explores highly relevant topics of soil degradation and sustainable soil management
Provides a comprehensive study of soil science and its application in real-world scenarios
Emphasizes the importance of soil for life on earth, aligning with current environmental concerns
Covers a wide range of soil-related topics, from soil formation to soil pollution
Designed for beginners, providing a strong foundation in soil science
Involves practical projects and discussions, fostering active learning
Save this course
Save Sustainable Soil Management: Soil for life to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Soil management basics
According to students, Sustainable Soil Management: Soil for Life is a well-structured course that provides a solid foundation in the principles of soil management. Students say the course offers valuable insights into soil health and sustainable practices, with engaging assignments and informative lectures.
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 Soil Management: Soil for life with these
activities:
Review soil basics
Show steps
Review the fundamentals of soil science, including soil composition, texture, structure, and classification, to strengthen your understanding of soil management concepts.
Show steps
-
Recall the different types of soil particles and their characteristics.
-
Describe the processes involved in soil formation.
-
Identify the main soil horizons and their functions.
Create a soil science resource library
Show steps
Organize and collate relevant soil science materials, such as research articles, case studies, and best practices, to enhance your understanding of soil management and conservation.
Show steps
-
Collect soil science materials from various sources, such as online databases, journals, and conferences.
-
Categorize and organize the materials based on topics or themes.
-
Create a digital or physical library for easy access and reference.
Soil Biodiversity Poster
Show steps
Foster appreciation and awareness of soil biodiversity through creative expression.
Show steps
-
Gather information and images about soil biodiversity.
-
Design and create a visually appealing poster highlighting key concepts.
-
Include information on the importance of soil biodiversity and threats to it.
-
Present the poster in class or share it online.
Eight other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 11 activities
Explore soil degradation case studies
Show steps
Examine real-world examples of soil degradation to gain insights into the causes, consequences, and potential solutions for sustainable soil management.
Show steps
-
Identify different types of soil degradation.
-
Analyze the factors contributing to soil degradation in specific case studies.
-
Evaluate the effectiveness of soil conservation practices implemented in the case studies.
Soil Fertility Assessment
Show steps
Enhance understanding of factors affecting soil fertility and techniques for assessment.
Browse courses on
Soil Fertility
Show steps
-
Review online tutorials on soil fertility and assessment techniques.
-
Collect soil samples from different locations.
-
Perform chemical and biological tests to analyze soil fertility parameters.
-
Interpret results and prepare a fertility management plan.
-
Share findings with experts or local farmers.
Participate in soil conservation discussions
Show steps
Engage with peers to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and discuss innovative approaches to soil conservation and sustainable land management.
Show steps
-
Join online forums or discussion groups dedicated to soil science.
-
Contribute to discussions by sharing your insights and asking questions.
-
Collaborate with peers on projects or research related to soil conservation.
Engage in soil conservation projects
Show steps
Gain practical experience and contribute to soil conservation efforts by volunteering with organizations involved in soil restoration, erosion control, or sustainable land management.
Show steps
-
Identify local organizations or projects focused on soil conservation.
-
Contact the organizations and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
-
Participate in soil conservation activities such as planting trees, installing erosion control measures, or conducting soil surveys.
Soil Erosion Investigation
Show steps
Demonstrate and practice concepts learned in the course's Soil Erosion module.
Show steps
-
Identify and collect various soil samples.
-
Construct an erosion simulator or use an existing one.
-
Subject the soil samples to different conditions and measure erosion rates.
-
Analyze the data, compare results, and draw conclusions.
-
Write a report summarizing the findings and implications.
Develop a soil management plan
Show steps
Apply your understanding of soil management principles to create a comprehensive plan for a specific soil type or land use scenario, considering factors such as soil health, erosion control, and nutrient management.
Show steps
-
Identify the soil type and land use scenario.
-
Assess the current soil health and identify areas for improvement.
-
Develop strategies for erosion control, nutrient management, and soil conservation.
-
Create a written plan outlining the proposed soil management practices.
Participate in soil science competitions
Show steps
Challenge yourself and test your understanding of soil science by participating in competitions such as soil judging, soil mapping, or soil health assessments.
Show steps
-
Identify soil science competitions relevant to your interests and skill level.
-
Prepare for the competition by reviewing soil science principles and practicing relevant techniques.
-
Participate in the competition and strive to demonstrate your knowledge and skills.
Guide students in soil science projects
Show steps
Share your soil science knowledge and skills by mentoring students in their research projects or coursework related to soil management, soil health, or soil conservation.
Show steps
-
Identify opportunities to mentor students, such as through university programs or outreach initiatives.
-
Provide guidance to students on soil science concepts, research methods, and project development.
-
Offer feedback and support to students throughout their projects.
Review soil basics
Show steps
Review the fundamentals of soil science, including soil composition, texture, structure, and classification, to strengthen your understanding of soil management concepts.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Recall the different types of soil particles and their characteristics.
- Describe the processes involved in soil formation.
- Identify the main soil horizons and their functions.
Create a soil science resource library
Show steps
Organize and collate relevant soil science materials, such as research articles, case studies, and best practices, to enhance your understanding of soil management and conservation.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Collect soil science materials from various sources, such as online databases, journals, and conferences.
- Categorize and organize the materials based on topics or themes.
- Create a digital or physical library for easy access and reference.
Soil Biodiversity Poster
Show steps
Foster appreciation and awareness of soil biodiversity through creative expression.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather information and images about soil biodiversity.
- Design and create a visually appealing poster highlighting key concepts.
- Include information on the importance of soil biodiversity and threats to it.
- Present the poster in class or share it online.
Eight other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 11 activities
Explore soil degradation case studies
Show steps
Examine real-world examples of soil degradation to gain insights into the causes, consequences, and potential solutions for sustainable soil management.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify different types of soil degradation.
- Analyze the factors contributing to soil degradation in specific case studies.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of soil conservation practices implemented in the case studies.
Soil Fertility Assessment
Show steps
Enhance understanding of factors affecting soil fertility and techniques for assessment.
Browse courses on
Soil Fertility
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review online tutorials on soil fertility and assessment techniques.
- Collect soil samples from different locations.
- Perform chemical and biological tests to analyze soil fertility parameters.
- Interpret results and prepare a fertility management plan.
- Share findings with experts or local farmers.
Participate in soil conservation discussions
Show steps
Engage with peers to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and discuss innovative approaches to soil conservation and sustainable land management.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Join online forums or discussion groups dedicated to soil science.
- Contribute to discussions by sharing your insights and asking questions.
- Collaborate with peers on projects or research related to soil conservation.
Engage in soil conservation projects
Show steps
Gain practical experience and contribute to soil conservation efforts by volunteering with organizations involved in soil restoration, erosion control, or sustainable land management.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify local organizations or projects focused on soil conservation.
- Contact the organizations and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
- Participate in soil conservation activities such as planting trees, installing erosion control measures, or conducting soil surveys.
Soil Erosion Investigation
Show steps
Demonstrate and practice concepts learned in the course's Soil Erosion module.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify and collect various soil samples.
- Construct an erosion simulator or use an existing one.
- Subject the soil samples to different conditions and measure erosion rates.
- Analyze the data, compare results, and draw conclusions.
- Write a report summarizing the findings and implications.
Develop a soil management plan
Show steps
Apply your understanding of soil management principles to create a comprehensive plan for a specific soil type or land use scenario, considering factors such as soil health, erosion control, and nutrient management.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the soil type and land use scenario.
- Assess the current soil health and identify areas for improvement.
- Develop strategies for erosion control, nutrient management, and soil conservation.
- Create a written plan outlining the proposed soil management practices.
Participate in soil science competitions
Show steps
Challenge yourself and test your understanding of soil science by participating in competitions such as soil judging, soil mapping, or soil health assessments.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify soil science competitions relevant to your interests and skill level.
- Prepare for the competition by reviewing soil science principles and practicing relevant techniques.
- Participate in the competition and strive to demonstrate your knowledge and skills.
Guide students in soil science projects
Show steps
Share your soil science knowledge and skills by mentoring students in their research projects or coursework related to soil management, soil health, or soil conservation.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify opportunities to mentor students, such as through university programs or outreach initiatives.
- Provide guidance to students on soil science concepts, research methods, and project development.
- Offer feedback and support to students throughout their projects.
Career center
Learners who complete Sustainable Soil Management: Soil for life will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Environmental Consultant
Environmental Consultant
An Environmental Consultant helps organizations, businesses, and government agencies comply with environmental rules and regulations. They also advise companies on how to reduce their environmental impact and use sustainable business practices. Many Environmental Consultants focus on soil and land management. Taking this course may help you build a foundation that you can continue to build upon as you enter this field.
Soil Scientist
Soil Scientist
A Soil Scientist collects and interprets data about soil characteristics. As a Soil Scientist, you may be involved in research, conservation, or land management projects. This course may be one of many that you would take as you begin your journey to become a Soil Scientist.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineer
An Environmental Engineer may design, build, and maintain systems to protect the environment. Some Environmental Engineers specialize in soil and water conservation. This course may be one of many that you would take as you begin your journey to become an Environmental Engineer.
Conservation Scientist
Conservation Scientist
A Conservation Scientist develops and implements plans to protect natural resources. Some Conservation Scientists focus on soil conservation.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts advise governments and businesses on public policy. Some Policy Analysts specialize in environmental policy.
Environmental Educator
Environmental Educator
An Environmental Educator develops and implements educational programs about environmental issues. Some Environmental Educators specialize in soil science education.
Urban Planner
Urban Planner
An Urban Planner develops plans for the development and use of land in urban areas. Some Urban Planners specialize in sustainable development.
Land Use Planner
Land Use Planner
A Land Use Planner develops plans for the use of land in rural areas. Some Land Use Planners specialize in sustainable land management.
Water Resource Manager
Water Resource Manager
A Water Resource Manager develops and implements plans to protect water resources.
Soil Conservationist
Soil Conservationist
A Soil Conservationist helps farmers and landowners implement soil conservation practices.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
An Environmental Scientist conducts research on environmental issues. Some Environmental Scientists specialize in soil science.
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Lawyer
An Environmental Lawyer represents clients in legal matters related to the environment. Some Environmental Lawyers specialize in soil law.
Field Technician
Field Technician
A Field Technician collects and analyzes data on environmental conditions. Some Field Technicians specialize in soil sampling and analysis.
Farm Manager
Farm Manager
A Farm Manager oversees the operations of a farm. Some Farm Managers specialize in sustainable agriculture.
Landscaper
Landscaper
A Landscaper designs, installs, and maintains landscapes. Some Landscapers specialize in sustainable landscaping.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/cieopw/sustainable
Reading list
We've selected nine 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 Soil Management: Soil for life.
This comprehensive textbook provides a thorough overview of soil science and management, covering topics such as soil formation, classification, fertility, and conservation. It valuable resource for students and professionals alike.
This classic textbook provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of soil science, covering topics such as soil formation, classification, fertility, and conservation. It valuable resource for students and professionals alike.
Provides a comprehensive overview of soil ecology, with a focus on the role of soil organisms in ecosystem functioning. It valuable resource for students and professionals interested in soil ecology and ecosystem services.
Provides a comprehensive overview of soil microbiology, ecology, and biochemistry. It valuable resource for students and professionals interested in soil science and soil microbiology.
Provides a comprehensive overview of soil physics, covering topics such as soil water, soil temperature, and soil mechanics. It valuable resource for students and professionals interested in soil physics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of soil chemistry, covering topics such as soil pH, soil nutrients, and soil pollution. It valuable resource for students and professionals interested in soil chemistry.
Provides a comprehensive overview of soil fertility and fertilizers, covering topics such as soil fertility management, fertilizer application, and fertilizer recommendations. It valuable resource for students and professionals interested in soil fertility and fertilizers.
Provides a comprehensive overview of soil pollution, covering topics such as soil pollution sources, soil pollution effects, and soil pollution remediation. It valuable resource for students and professionals interested in soil pollution.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of soil biology and biochemistry, covering topics such as soil organisms, soil organic matter, and soil nutrient cycling. It valuable resource for students and professionals interested in soil biology and biochemistry.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/cieopw/sustainable
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Effort
8 to 10 hours per week for 7 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Wageningen University & Research
Instructors
Coen J. Ritsema
Michel Riksen
Jerry Maroulis
Session
January 2, 2024
- April 22, 2025
Language
English
Transcript
English
Good to know
Explores highly relevant topics of soil degradation and sustainable soil management
Provides a comprehensive study of soil science and its application in real-world scenarios
Emphasizes the importance of soil for life on earth, aligning with current environmental concerns
Covers a wide range of soil-related topics, from soil formation to soil pollution
Designed for beginners, providing a strong foundation in soil science
Involves practical projects and discussions, fostering active learning
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