We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

Course image

Course image

Engineering

Building with Nature

Course image

Marcel Stive, Jill Slinger, and Building with Nature - Course Contributors

4.5

Based on 2 ratings

, see reviews

Marcel Stive, Jill Slinger, and Building with Nature - Course Contributors

If you're interested in the concept of building with nature, then this is the engineering course for you. This course explores the use of natural materials and ecological processes in achieving effective and sustainable hydraulic infrastructural designs. You will learn the Building with Nature ecosystem-based design concept and its applications in water and coastal systems. During the course, you will be presented with a range of case studies to deepen your knowledge of ecological and engineering principles.

Read more

If you're interested in the concept of building with nature, then this is the engineering course for you. This course explores the use of natural materials and ecological processes in achieving effective and sustainable hydraulic infrastructural designs. You will learn the Building with Nature ecosystem-based design concept and its applications in water and coastal systems. During the course, you will be presented with a range of case studies to deepen your knowledge of ecological and engineering principles.

You'll learn from leading Dutch engineers and environmental scientists who see the Building with Nature integrated design approach as fundamental to a new generation of engineers and ecologists.

Join us in exploring the interface between hydraulic engineering, nature and society.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Basic engineering design principles, and basic ecological principles, relevant to the building with nature approach
How to assess which principles are applied in several case studies and so form your own opinion on whether the hydraulic infrastructure is meeting engineering, ecosystem and societal goals

How to apply your new knowledge in assessing the potential for building with nature solutions where you live

Basic engineering design principles, and basic ecological principles, relevant to the building with nature approach
How to assess which principles are applied in several case studies and so form your own opinion on whether the hydraulic infrastructure is meeting engineering, ecosystem and societal goals
How to apply your new knowledge in assessing the potential for building with nature solutions where you live

Syllabus

Week 1: Introduction to Building with Nature.Introduction to the Building with Nature concept and its importance through a number of dramatic examples. Identifying hydraulic engineering infrastructures, and exploring the diversity of standpoints on their ecological effects.

Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Building with Nature introduces the concept of using natural materials and ecological principles in the design of hydraulic infrastructure for sustainable and effective water and coastal systems management

Students will learn from leading Dutch engineers and environmental scientists who are recognized for their expertise in the Building with Nature approach

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.

Save

Reviews summary

Engineering and nature integration

According to learners, this course offers a unique and important perspective on integrating ecological principles with hydraulic engineering. Many found the content well-structured and informative, particularly appreciating the insights from expert instructors from TU Delft and the use of practical case studies that help bridge theory and application. While generally praised as a solid foundation, some students noted that assignments could sometimes feel vague and the peer review process inconsistent. Overall, it's seen as a valuable introduction for those new to the Building with Nature concept.

Provides a solid but introductory overview.

"This is an excellent foundation for understanding the Building with Nature concept."

"Good starting point for someone new to the topic, but maybe not very deep for those with significant prior knowledge."

"Gave me a great overview of the principles, but left me wanting more detail on specific applications."

Delivered by leading experts from TU Delft.

"The instructors are clearly knowledgeable and passionate about the subject, which made the lectures engaging."

"Great insights directly from the professors doing work in this field."

"Learning from TU Delft experts gave the course significant credibility."

Case studies help apply principles effectively.

"The case studies were the highlight of the course for me. They really helped solidify the concepts."

"Seeing real-world examples made the theoretical principles much easier to grasp and apply."

"Applying the BwN framework to case studies was a very helpful exercise."

Explores crucial interdisciplinary approach.

"Building with Nature is a vital topic for the future of engineering and sustainability. This course introduced it perfectly."

"I loved learning about this integrated design approach. It's not something you find in standard engineering curricula."

"A timely and relevant concept presented clearly."

"The focus on ecological processes alongside engineering principles is what makes this course stand out."

Some found assignments/peer review inconsistent.

"Assignments sometimes felt vague in their instructions."

"The quality of feedback in the peer review varied greatly, which was frustrating."

"I wish there was clearer guidance on what was expected for the final assignment."

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 Engineering: Building with Nature with these activities:

Review Engineering Design Principles

Show steps

Strengthen your foundation in engineering design principles to enhance your comprehension of Building with Nature concepts.

Browse courses on Engineering Design

Show steps

Revisit textbooks or online resources on engineering design.
Summarize key design principles and their applications.
Complete practice exercises or quizzes to reinforce your understanding.

Classify Hydraulic Engineering Infrastructures

Show steps

Reinforce your understanding of different types of hydraulic engineering infrastructures and their ecological implications.

Browse courses on Hydraulic Engineering

Show steps

Review the classification of hydraulic engineering infrastructures provided in the course materials.
Gather examples of different infrastructure types from online resources or your surroundings.
Classify each example according to the provided criteria.

Connect with Professionals

Show steps

Seek guidance from experienced professionals in the field of Building with Nature to gain insights and enhance your learning journey.

Show steps

Identify professionals working in hydraulic engineering, environmental science, or related fields.
Reach out to them via email or LinkedIn, expressing your interest in learning from their expertise.
Schedule meetings or virtual conversations to discuss Building with Nature practices and career paths.

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Peer Review of Building with Nature Designs

Show steps

Collaborate with peers to refine and enhance your understanding of Building with Nature design concepts.

Browse courses on Peer Review

Show steps

Form small peer groups of 3-4 students.
Each group develops a hypothetical Building with Nature design proposal.
Peer groups exchange their proposals and provide constructive feedback on design, implementation, and ecological impact.
Revise and refine the proposals based on peer feedback.

Explore Case Studies

Show steps

Engage with real-world examples to understand the practical applications of Building with Nature principles.

Show steps

Review the case studies provided in the course materials.
Identify the engineering and ecological principles applied in each case study.
Analyze the outcomes and assess the effectiveness of the Building with Nature approach.

Present a Hydraulic Infrastructure Analysis

Show steps

Apply your understanding of engineering and ecological principles to evaluate and suggest improvements for existing hydraulic infrastructure.

Show steps

Select a hydraulic infrastructure in your area or from the course materials.
Conduct a site visit or literature review to gather data on the infrastructure and its environmental context.
Analyze the design and operation of the infrastructure using engineering and ecological principles.
Identify potential improvements to enhance ecological functionality.
Create a presentation to communicate your findings and recommendations.

Develop a Building with Nature Toolkit

Show steps

Create a comprehensive resource that synthesizes your understanding of Building with Nature principles and practical applications.

Show steps

Gather information from the course materials, scientific literature, and industry best practices.
Organize the information into a logical and user-friendly format, such as a website, guidebook, or presentation.
Include sections on design principles, case studies, and implementation strategies.
Test the toolkit with peers or stakeholders to obtain feedback and make improvements.

Career center

Learners who complete Engineering: Building with Nature will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Coastal Engineer

Coastal Engineers design and manage structures and systems to protect coastlines from erosion and flooding. Building with Nature, a course that explores the integration of natural materials and ecological processes into coastal infrastructure design, may be useful for a Coastal Engineer. It can help gain knowledge in ecosystem-based design concepts and their application in coastal systems, which can be valuable in designing sustainable and resilient coastal protection measures.

See salaries and explore the career path for Coastal Engineer

Ecologist

Ecologists study the interactions between organisms and their environment. Building with Nature, a course that explores the integration of ecological principles into hydraulic infrastructure design, may be useful for an Ecologist. It provides knowledge in ecological design principles and their application in water and coastal systems, which can aid in designing sustainable and environmentally friendly infrastructure that supports healthy ecosystems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Ecologist

Coastal Policy Analyst

Coastal Policy Analysts research, analyze, and develop coastal policies and regulations. Building with Nature, a course that explores the integration of natural materials and ecological processes into coastal infrastructure design, may be useful for a Coastal Policy Analyst. It provides knowledge in assessing the potential for Building with Nature solutions, which can aid in developing sustainable and resilient coastal policies and regulations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Coastal Policy Analyst

Water Policy Analyst

Water Policy Analysts research, analyze, and develop water policies and regulations. Building with Nature, a course that explores the use of natural materials and ecological processes in achieving sustainable hydraulic infrastructural designs, may be useful for a Water Policy Analyst. It provides knowledge in assessing the potential for Building with Nature solutions, which can aid in developing sustainable and environmentally friendly water policies and regulations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Water Policy Analyst

Water Resources Engineer

Water Resources Engineers design and manage systems for water supply, flood control, and water quality. Building with Nature, a course that focuses on the use of natural materials and ecological processes in hydraulic infrastructural design, may be useful for a Water Resources Engineer. It provides knowledge in assessing the potential for Building with Nature solutions in water systems, which can aid in designing sustainable and environmentally friendly water resources management systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Water Resources Engineer

Hydrologist

Hydrologists study the movement and distribution of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. Building with Nature, a course that explores the use of natural materials and ecological processes in hydraulic infrastructural design, may be useful for a Hydrologist. It provides knowledge in assessing the potential for Building with Nature solutions in water systems, which can aid in developing sustainable and environmentally friendly water management strategies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Hydrologist

Sustainability Consultant

Sustainability Consultants provide advice and guidance to organizations on how to improve their environmental performance and sustainability. Building with Nature, a course that explores the use of natural materials and ecological processes in achieving sustainable hydraulic infrastructural designs, may be useful for a Sustainability Consultant. It provides knowledge in assessing the potential for Building with Nature solutions, which can aid in developing and implementing sustainable strategies for various organizations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Consultant

Landscape Architect

Landscape Architects design and manage outdoor spaces, including parks, gardens, and public spaces. Building with Nature, a course that explores the use of natural materials and ecological processes in achieving sustainable hydraulic infrastructural designs, may be useful for a Landscape Architect. It provides knowledge in assessing the potential for Building with Nature solutions, which can aid in designing sustainable and resilient landscapes that incorporate natural elements and support healthy ecosystems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Landscape Architect

Environmental Lawyer

Environmental Lawyers specialize in environmental law and represent clients in environmental litigation and regulatory compliance. Building with Nature, a course that explores the integration of ecological principles into hydraulic infrastructure design, may be useful for an Environmental Lawyer. It provides knowledge in assessing the potential for Building with Nature solutions, which can aid in understanding the legal and regulatory implications of sustainable infrastructure development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Lawyer

Geomorphologist

Geomorphologists study the evolution and dynamics of landforms. Building with Nature, a course that explores the integration of natural materials and ecological processes into hydraulic infrastructure design, may be useful for a Geomorphologist. It provides knowledge in assessing the potential for Building with Nature solutions, which can aid in designing sustainable and resilient infrastructure that considers the natural geomorphic processes.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geomorphologist

Urban Planner

Urban Planners develop plans and policies for the development and use of land in urban areas. Building with Nature, a course that explores the integration of natural materials and ecological processes into hydraulic infrastructure design, may be useful for an Urban Planner. It provides knowledge in assessing the potential for Building with Nature solutions, which can aid in developing sustainable and resilient urban plans that consider the natural environment and promote healthy ecosystems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

Environmental Policy Analyst

Environmental Policy Analysts research, analyze, and develop environmental policies and regulations. Building with Nature, a course that explores the integration of ecological principles into hydraulic infrastructure design, may be useful for an Environmental Policy Analyst. It provides knowledge in assessing the potential for Building with Nature solutions, which can aid in developing environmentally friendly policies and regulations that support sustainable infrastructure development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Policy Analyst

Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists conduct research and provide консультация on environmental issues, including pollution control, climate change, and natural resource management. Building with Nature, a course that explores the use of natural materials and ecological processes in achieving sustainable hydraulic infrastructural designs, may be useful for an Environmental Scientist. It provides knowledge in assessing the potential for Building with Nature solutions, which can aid in developing environmentally friendly solutions to address environmental challenges.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist

Civil Engineer

Civil Engineers plan, design, and supervise the construction and maintenance of infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water supply systems. Building with Nature, a course that explores the concept of integrating natural materials and ecological processes into hydraulic infrastructure design, may be useful for a Civil Engineer. It helps build a foundation in ecosystem-based design concepts and their application in water and coastal systems. This knowledge can be beneficial in designing sustainable and environmentally friendly civil engineering projects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Engineer

Environmental Engineer

Environmental Engineers design, implement, and oversee solutions to protect the environment. They engage in areas such as water and air pollution control, recycling, hazardous waste management, and natural resources management. Building with Nature, a course that integrates ecological and engineering principles for effective and sustainable hydraulic infrastructural design, may be useful for an Environmental Engineer as it provides a comprehensive understanding of environmental design principles and their application in practical scenarios. It can help you gain knowledge in assessing the potential for Building with Nature solutions in your locality, which can be valuable in developing sustainable environmental solutions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Engineer

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 Engineering: Building with Nature.

Cover image

Cover image

Coastal Engineering

Save

Discusses an array of topics in coastal engineering which are relevant to Building with Nature, including beach nourishment and dune reinforcement.

Coastal Engineering: Processes, Theory and Design...

Cover image

Cover image

Save

Provides a theoretical framework for understanding the interactions between hydraulics and ecology, which is essential for Building with Nature design.

Equidosimetry: Ecological Standardization and...

Cover image

Cover image

Landscape Architecture, Fifth Edition

Save

Provides a comprehensive overview of landscape architecture, including chapters on ecological restoration and sustainable design.

Landscape Architecture, Fifth Edition: A Manual of...

Cover image

Cover image

Estuarine Ecology

Save

Provides a detailed overview of estuarine ecosystems, and discusses the challenges they face due to human activities.

Estuarine Ecology

Cover image

Cover image

Ecological Engineering Design

Save

Provides an overview of the field of ecological engineering, and discusses how to apply ecological principles to the design and restoration of ecosystems.

Global Optimization: Scientific and Engineering...

Cover image

Cover image

The World's Water Volume 7

Save

Provides a comprehensive overview of the world's water resources, and discusses the challenges of water scarcity and pollution.

The World's Water Volume 7: The Biennial Report on...

Cover image

Cover image

Fundamentals of Hydraulic Engineering Systems

Save

Provides a comprehensive overview of hydraulic engineering systems, and discusses the design and construction of hydraulic infrastructure.

Fundamentals of Hydraulic Engineering Systems

Engineering Hydrology

Save

Provides a comprehensive overview of hydrology, and discusses the applications of hydrology in engineering design.

Engineering Hydrology

Engineering Hydrology: 4e

Engineering Hydrology | 6th Edition

Engineering Hydrology, 3e

Cover image

Cover image

Principles of Water Resources

Save

Provides a comprehensive overview of water resources, and discusses the challenges of water management in the face of climate change and population growth.

Principles of Water Resources: History, Development...

Principles of Water Resources: History, Development...

Principles of Water Resources: History, Development...

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Copy Link

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to Engineering: Building with Nature.

Fundamental Skills in Engineering Design

Fundamental Skills in Engineering Design

Designing and Simulating Physical Models

Designing and Simulating Physical Models

Innovate with ANSYS Simulation Tools

Innovate with ANSYS Simulation Tools

Protecting the World: Introducing Corrosion Science and Engineering

Protecting the World: Introducing Corrosion Science and...

YQArch AutoCAD Mastery for 10x Faster Project Design.!

YQArch AutoCAD Mastery for 10x Faster Project Design.!

SOLIDWORKS Mastery:500 Examples| 500 Q&A|20 Project| 10 Test

SOLIDWORKS Mastery:500 Examples| 500 Q&A|20 Project| 10...

FREECAD BASIC COURSE

FREECAD BASIC COURSE

Fundamentals of Submarine Engineering

Fundamentals of Submarine Engineering

edX Buyer Protection & Guarantee

Verified partner policies & purchase protections

World-Class University Partner

Free Trial & Audit

Free Audit Track Available

Free audit track available for most courses, giving open access to video lectures, course readings, and assignments at no charge.

Return & Refund Policy

14-Day Full Refund Window

14-day full refund available up to 14 days after course start or 14 days after payment (whichever comes second, up to 6 months max), provided verified certificate has not yet been earned.

Buyer Protections

Verified Academic & Industry Partner

University-backed credentials authored by elite institutions like Harvard, MIT, and Oxford, with tamper-proof certificate verification.

Key Purchase Protections

Free audit track for open learning access

14-day money-back guarantee on verified certificates

Prestigious university credentials (Harvard, MIT)

Automatic unenrollment refund process via dashboard

OpenCourser Verified Partner Policy details last reviewed: 2026-10-22

Course image

Rating

4.5

Effort

3 to 5 hours per week for 5 weeks

Level

Intermediate

Via

edX

Institution

Delft University of Technology

Instructors

Marcel Stive

Jill Slinger

Building with Nature - Course Contributors

Language

English

Transcript

English

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Building with Nature introduces the concept of using natural materials and ecological principles in the design of hydraulic infrastructure for sustainable and effective water and coastal systems management

Students will learn from leading Dutch engineers and environmental scientists who are recognized for their expertise in the Building with Nature approach

Share this

Share to help others discover this course.

Link

Begin learning today

Enroll now to gain full access to Engineering.

Enroll now Enroll in this course

Save for later

Add this course to your list. Find it anytime.

Save

Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser