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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.
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.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/l708rh/engineering
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
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
Week 2: Engineering design principlesThe engineering design process is explained and the underlying principles are distilled. Students familiarize themselves with the material through classification exercises.
Week 3: Ecological design principlesThe concept of designing in accordance with ecological principles is explained. Students identify different types of aquatic ecosystems and distill principles on the basis of ecosystem character and functioning.
Week 4: Integrated designStudents apply their new knowledge in assessing the potential for Building with Nature solutions in case studies, or in their locality. Trade-offs in applying engineering and ecological principles are explicated, and the opportunities for nature are clarified.
Week 5: Integrated design reviewCritical evaluation of whether hydraulic infrastructure is fit for purpose in meeting engineering, ecological and societal goals by peer reviewing case studies from week 4. In particular, students assess the coherence between the infrastructure design and the ecosystem character and function.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , 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
Save Engineering: Building with Nature to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Nature-integrated engineering
According to students, engineering principles in this course are challenging, and the inclusion of ecological perspectives helps to broaden perspectives. The variety of learning methods is engaging and useful templates are provided. The peer review requirement on the final project is also seen as a positive.
Working on the final project with peers provides a unique perspective.
"helped me to better understand the combined engineering and ecological perspectives and balance my perspective."
Varied learning methods keeps things interesting.
"I enjoyed the various learning techniques applied throughout the course."
Challenging course. Especially if you are new to the material.
"It was challenging for me as hydraulic engineering principles were new to me."
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.
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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
Show steps
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:
Ecologist
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.
Coastal Policy Analyst
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.
Coastal Engineer
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.
Hydrologist
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.
Water Resources Engineer
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.
Water 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.
Landscape Architect
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.
Sustainability Consultant
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.
Environmental Policy Analyst
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.
Geomorphologist
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.
Urban Planner
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.
Environmental Lawyer
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.
Civil Engineer
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.
Environmental Scientist
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.
Environmental 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.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/l708rh/engineering
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.
Save
Discusses an array of topics in coastal engineering which are relevant to Building with Nature, including beach nourishment and dune reinforcement.
Save
Provides a theoretical framework for understanding the interactions between hydraulics and ecology, which is essential for Building with Nature design.
Provides a comprehensive overview of landscape architecture, including chapters on ecological restoration and sustainable design.
Save
Provides a detailed overview of estuarine ecosystems, and discusses the challenges they face due to human activities.
Provides an overview of the field of ecological engineering, and discusses how to apply ecological principles to the design and restoration of ecosystems.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the world's water resources, and discusses the challenges of water scarcity and pollution.
Provides a comprehensive overview of hydraulic engineering systems, and discusses the design and construction of hydraulic infrastructure.
Provides a comprehensive overview of hydrology, and discusses the applications of hydrology in engineering design.
Provides a comprehensive overview of water resources, and discusses the challenges of water management in the face of climate change and population growth.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/l708rh/engineering
Share
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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
Good to know
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
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