The Science Advisory Toolbox for Environmental Management from edX

There is a broad spectrum of ways that science can be incorporated into environmental management and policy and it all begins with effectively articulating cause and impacts. Climate change, biodiversity loss, and other pressing, global environmental issues are of such a scale that citizens, NGOs, natural resource managers, interest groups, and local governments believe themselves helpless to find solutions. But these are the very groups that need to coalesce around a strong message to effect social change. You can be their guide.

We will begin this course with a survey of early conservation thought-leaders that changed the conversation about how humans view their natural world. Environmentalism, at its core, requires a science-driven, grassroots movement that ultimately inspires social change, encourages corporate social responsibility, and shapes environmental policy. Only then can society ensure healthy ecosystems and environmental justice for citizens of local and regional communities.

As our understanding of our natural world has grown in depth and complexity, so has the need for implementing new communication tools to best express this knowledge in a way that is accessible and actionable. Synthesis of data into a compelling story is the solution. You will develop your own toolbox of science advisory techniques while growing your environmental management knowledge base.

Taught by leading experts in the field with real world examples and studies, this course will show you how today’s conservation leaders can still “change the conversation” and guide society toward solutions for complex resiliency and sustainability problems that benefit all stakeholders and future generations.

What's inside

Learning objectives

The various roles of scientists across the spectrum of engagement with environmental management. *
The different cultures of science and policy and the different roles of scientists in engaging in environmental management. *

Science and management engagement strategies that capitalize on personal strengths.

The various roles of scientists across the spectrum of engagement with environmental management. *
The different cultures of science and policy and the different roles of scientists in engaging in environmental management. *
Science and management engagement strategies that capitalize on personal strengths.

Syllabus

Module 1: Frameworks for socio-environmental management

● Greek Words

● Ecosystem-based management part 1

● Ecosystem-based management part 2

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Taught by leading experts with real-world insights and case studies

Explores frameworks for socio-environmental management, such as ecosystem-based management and adaptive governance

Examines conservation and environmental movements, providing historical context and their role in shaping environmentalism

Develops science advising strategies that scientists can use to engage in environmental management

Covers stakeholder engagement and co-production, emphasizing transdisciplinary approaches

Outlines socio-environmental problem-solving techniques, including scientific synthesis, systems thinking, and citizen science

Reviews summary

Practical science advisory for environmental management

According to students, this course provides a robust and practical framework for applying scientific knowledge in environmental management and policy. Many highlight its ability to bridge science and real-world issues, offering valuable communication tools and strategies for stakeholder engagement. The content is praised for its expert instructors and real-world examples, making complex topics accessible. While a few found early modules introductory or desired more hands-on projects, recent reviews consistently show it's invaluable for professionals seeking to drive social and environmental change, indicating its continued relevance.

Provides a robust and foundational understanding of the field.

"This course provided a robust framework for understanding how to apply scientific knowledge..."

"A very comprehensive course. The content on environmental movements was surprisingly engaging."

"This course offers excellent conceptual frameworks for environmental management. It is foundational rather than prescriptive."

Knowledgeable instructors deliver insightful and engaging content.

"The instructors are clearly experts and very engaging."

"Solid course content delivered by knowledgeable instructors."

"The instructors made the material very accessible despite its academic rigor."

Equips learners with actionable strategies and tools.

"The 'Science Advisory Toolbox' is not just a catchy name; it truly delivers practical strategies."

"I appreciated the real-world case studies and how they contextualized the theory."

"I found the module on 'Coupled Human and Natural Systems' incredibly relevant to my work as an environmental consultant."

"I learned how to use practical tools and strategies that I could apply immediately to my work."

Some learners desire more practical exercises or projects.

"I wished there were more interactive exercises or perhaps a capstone project to solidify the learning..."

"I felt some parts were a bit too theoretical without enough concrete examples of *how* to implement strategies..."

"I sometimes struggled to see the direct application of certain concepts without clearer guidelines or more hands-on practice."

May be too broad for advanced practitioners seeking deep dives.

"My only minor critique is that some of the earlier modules felt a bit introductory for someone with a background in environmental policy..."

"I found the course quite broad and at times, it felt like it lacked depth in specific advisory techniques."

"Good for a general overview, but for experienced practitioners, it might feel a bit basic in certain areas."

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 The Science Advisory Toolbox for Environmental Management with these activities:

Annotated Bibliography

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Organize and synthesize knowledge from course materials to improve comprehension and retention.

Browse courses on Research Skills

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Gather and read course materials.
Take notes and summarize key concepts.
Write annotations for each source.

Silent Spring

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Gain historical and scientific context for the environmental movement.

View The Edge of the Sea on Amazon

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Read the book.

Data Visualization Workshop

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Enhance data visualization skills for effective communication of scientific findings.

Browse courses on Data Analysis

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Find and enroll in a relevant data visualization workshop.
Attend the workshop and actively participate.
Apply the skills learned in your own research projects.

Four other activities

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Show all seven activities

Collaborative Case Analysis

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Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through analyzing real-world environmental case studies.

Browse courses on Adaptive Governance

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Form a study group.
Select a case study.
Analyze and discuss the case.

Scientific Poster

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Enhance science communication and policy engagement skills through the creation of a scientific poster based on course research.

Browse courses on Science Communication

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Choose a research topic.
Design the poster layout.
Write the poster content.
Prepare for and present your poster.

Environmental Advocacy

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Gain practical experience and make a tangible impact on environmental issues.

Browse courses on Environmental Policy

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Identify an environmental organization or project.
Contact the organization and express your interest.
Participate in volunteer activities.

Ecosystem Management Plan

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Develop real world experience through planning a comprehensive environmental management plan.

Browse courses on Ecosystem Management

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Identify and prioritize environmental issues.
Develop management objectives and strategies.
Create an implementation plan.
Monitor and evaluate progress.

Career center

Learners who complete The Science Advisory Toolbox for Environmental Management will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Conservation Biologist

Conservation Biologists develop and implement plans to protect and manage endangered species and their habitats. This course would be very useful for those looking to enter this field, as it provides a comprehensive overview of environmental management, from conservation movements to socio-environmental problem solving. The course's emphasis on stakeholder engagement and adaptive governance will also be particularly relevant to those working as Conservation Biologists.

See salaries and explore the career path for Conservation Biologist

Environmental Planner

Environmental Planners develop plans to protect and manage natural resources. This course would be very useful for those looking to enter this field, as it provides a comprehensive overview of environmental management, from conservation movements to socio-environmental problem solving. The course's emphasis on stakeholder engagement and transdisciplinary approaches will also be particularly relevant to those working as Environmental Planners.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Planner

Environmental Economist

Environmental Economists research and analyze the economic effects of environmental policies. This course would be very useful for those looking to enter this field, as it provides a comprehensive overview of environmental management and policy. The course's emphasis on science advisory techniques and stakeholder engagement will also be particularly relevant to those working as Environmental Economists.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Economist

Science Policy Analyst

Science Policy Analysts research and analyze science policy issues, and develop policies to address them. This course would be very useful for those looking to enter this field, as it provides a comprehensive overview of environmental management and policy. The course's emphasis on science advisory techniques and stakeholder engagement will also be particularly relevant to those working as Science Policy Analysts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Policy Analyst

Environmental Policy Analyst

Environmental Policy Analysts research and analyze environmental issues, and develop policies to address them. This course would be very useful for those looking to enter this field, as it provides a comprehensive overview of environmental management and policy. The course's emphasis on science advisory techniques and stakeholder engagement will also be particularly relevant to those working as Environmental Policy Analysts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Policy Analyst

Environmental Educator

Environmental Educators develop and implement educational programs that teach people about environmental issues. This course would be very useful for those looking to enter this field, as it provides a comprehensive overview of environmental management, from conservation movements to socio-environmental problem solving. The course's emphasis on science advisory techniques and stakeholder engagement will also be particularly relevant to those working as Environmental Educators.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Educator

Environmental Journalist

Environmental Journalists report on environmental issues for newspapers, magazines, and other media outlets. This course would be very useful for those looking to enter this field, as it provides a comprehensive overview of environmental management and policy. The course's emphasis on science advisory techniques and stakeholder engagement will also be particularly relevant to those working as Environmental Journalists.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Journalist

Sustainability Manager

Sustainability Managers develop and implement sustainability plans for businesses, organizations, and communities. This course would be very useful for those looking to enter this field, as it provides a comprehensive overview of environmental management and policy. The course's emphasis on stakeholder engagement and transdisciplinary approaches will also be particularly relevant to those working as Sustainability Managers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Manager

Natural Resource Manager

Natural Resource Managers develop and implement plans to manage natural resources, such as forests, parks, and wildlife. This course would be very useful for those looking to enter this field, as it provides a comprehensive overview of environmental management, from conservation movements to socio-environmental problem solving. The course's emphasis on stakeholder engagement and adaptive governance will also be particularly relevant to those working as Natural Resource Managers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Natural Resource Manager

Climate Change Analyst

Climate Change Analysts research and analyze climate change data, and develop policies to address it. This course would be very useful for those looking to enter this field, as it provides a comprehensive overview of environmental management and policy. The course's emphasis on science advisory techniques and stakeholder engagement will also be particularly relevant to those working as Climate Change Analysts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Climate Change Analyst

Science Communicator

Science Communicators translate complex scientific information into clear and concise language for the public. This course may be useful for those looking to enter this field by providing a foundation in environmental management and policy. The course's emphasis on science advisory techniques and stakeholder engagement will also be particularly relevant to those working as Science Communicators.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Communicator

Environmental Consultant

Environmental Consultants help businesses, government agencies, and homeowners address environmental issues. This course may be useful for those looking to enter this field by providing a foundation in environmental management and policy. The course's emphasis on science advisory techniques, stakeholder engagement, and socio-environmental problem solving will be particularly relevant to those working as Environmental Consultants.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Consultant

Environmental Lawyer

Environmental Lawyers advise clients on environmental laws and regulations, and represent them in court cases involving environmental issues. This course may be useful for those looking to enter this field by providing a foundation in environmental management and policy. The course's emphasis on science advisory techniques and socio-environmental problem solving will be particularly relevant to those working as Environmental Lawyers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Lawyer

Environmental Health Scientist

Environmental Health Scientists research and analyze the effects of environmental factors on human health. This course may be useful for those looking to enter this field by providing a foundation in environmental management and policy. The course's emphasis on science advisory techniques and stakeholder engagement will also be particularly relevant to those working as Environmental Health Scientists.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Health Scientist

Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists conduct research to understand environmental issues, and develop solutions to address them. This course may be useful for those looking to enter this field by providing a foundation in environmental management and policy. The course's emphasis on science advisory techniques and stakeholder engagement will also be particularly relevant to those working as Environmental Scientists.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist