Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions from edX

This course is a collaboration between the University of Maryland College Park’s Project Management Center for Excellence and the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science. While each course stands alone, the series works together to provide the knowledge, skills, and frameworks to lead projects that address Socio-Environmental problems.

In this course, we are building from the point of having successfully completed Stakeholder Outreach. This means that the major complex problem has been identified, measured, and distilled into a powerful narrative that can engage stakeholders to drive them to the next step: Stakeholder Collaboration.

To get started, we need to orient towards "why" we need to collaborate after collaboration. The answer? Problem complexity. Tackling complexity is a task no one person can do by its definition. Truly complex and wicked problems have no stopping point, no clarity of definition, and change as you try to improve the current state so you must reassess. Complex issues are also defined by a lack of complete information in any one party. The issues involve many standpoints, perspectives, and details partitioned among those involved. That’s why it’s “complex.” To solve this we need to tackle the problem which is termed “requisite variety,” a term coined by David Benjamin and David Komlos in their book “Cracking Complexity,” which is to say we need all the diverse representatives from those parts of the complex problem to bring their unique knowledge and perspective together.

In science when we do this it’s called “Transdisciplinary Approaches.” In Project Management we call this “cross-disciplinary” and “cross-organizational” problem solving. But what’s unique about Environmental Project Management is the often added problem of no organization existing among the rights holders that are impacted by the problems. So the added job of rallying and organizing these groups is added to the list of challenges for the Environmental Project Leader. Then the work of getting a first view of the complex problem can truly begin.

What you'll learn

Evaluate various types of problems and identify appropriate solution approaches.
Synthesize methods of planning, implementing, and evaluating transdisciplinary approaches
Identify the four different frameworks for adaptive governance.
Differentiate the differences between “Serving” vs “Facilitating”, and analyze how Agile is designed for Continuous Improvement with its PDCA cycle.
Identify how to “Frame Purpose” and “Set a Direction” for your Project and Team.
Recognize ways to avoid “Information Hoarding” and “Obscuring Progress” through the use of weekly stand-ups and assigning due dates within Sprints.
Question how to design an environment that encourages “play”, which ultimately leads to increased optimism, happiness, productivity, and willingness to take on challenges!
Classify the different levels of motivation and the tools that will help improve mastery amongst your team members.
Identify the 7 important questions when analyzing stakeholders.
Complete an ABT Framework in your notes for reference.
Define the CCARI Framework as it relates to the narrative continuum.
Recognize the importance of SEAVA and how to implement it within your own team.
Discuss the different conflict modes within the Thomas Killmann model and distinguish what situations they are best used for.
Classify the different techniques to use when negotiating, such as tactical empathy, mirroring, and leveraging “No”.
Implement the different Thomas Kilmann's Conflict Modes while negotiating.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Evaluate various types of problems and identify appropriate solution approaches.
Synthesize methods of planning, implementing, and evaluating transdisciplinary approaches
Identify the four different frameworks for adaptive governance.
Differentiate the differences between “serving” vs “facilitating”, and analyze how agile is designed for continuous improvement with its pdca cycle.
Identify how to “frame purpose” and “set a direction” for your project and team.
Recognize ways to avoid “information hoarding” and “obscuring progress” through the use of weekly stand-ups and assigning due dates within sprints.
Question how to design an environment that encourages “play”, which ultimately leads to increased optimism, happiness, productivity, and willingness to take on challenges!
Classify the different levels of motivation and the tools that will help improve mastery amongst your team members.

Identify the 7 important questions when analyzing stakeholders.
Complete an abt framework in your notes for reference.
Define the ccari framework as it relates to the narrative continuum.
Recognize the importance of seava and how to implement it within your own team.
Discuss the different conflict modes within the thomas killmann model and distinguish what situations they are best used for.
Classify the different techniques to use when negotiating, such as tactical empathy, mirroring, and leveraging “no”.
Implement the different thomas kilmann's conflict modes while negotiating.

Evaluate various types of problems and identify appropriate solution approaches.
Synthesize methods of planning, implementing, and evaluating transdisciplinary approaches
Identify the four different frameworks for adaptive governance.
Differentiate the differences between “serving” vs “facilitating”, and analyze how agile is designed for continuous improvement with its pdca cycle.
Identify how to “frame purpose” and “set a direction” for your project and team.
Recognize ways to avoid “information hoarding” and “obscuring progress” through the use of weekly stand-ups and assigning due dates within sprints.
Question how to design an environment that encourages “play”, which ultimately leads to increased optimism, happiness, productivity, and willingness to take on challenges!
Classify the different levels of motivation and the tools that will help improve mastery amongst your team members.
Identify the 7 important questions when analyzing stakeholders.
Complete an abt framework in your notes for reference.
Define the ccari framework as it relates to the narrative continuum.
Recognize the importance of seava and how to implement it within your own team.
Discuss the different conflict modes within the thomas killmann model and distinguish what situations they are best used for.
Classify the different techniques to use when negotiating, such as tactical empathy, mirroring, and leveraging “no”.
Implement the different thomas kilmann's conflict modes while negotiating.

Syllabus

MODULE 1: COLLABORATING TO SOLVE SOCIO-ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS WITH A TRANSDISCIPLINARY APPROACH

Why Stakeholder Engagement?

Classifying Problems

Socio-Environmental Systems

Transdisciplinary Approaches

Planning and Implementing

Adaptive Governance

Adaptive governance

MODULE 2: MANAGING AND LEADING A TEAM TOWARDS A SHARED VISION

Agile Leader's Process

Framing Purpose

Adapting to Agile

Power of Play

Mastery, Autonomy, Purpose

MODULE 3: TOOLS FOR ENGAGEMENT

Enabling Conditions

Stakeholder Analysis

Collaborative Learning

Workshop Planning

Facilitation and Engagement

Casual Loop Diagrams

Social Network Analysis

Finding Stories that Resonate

MODULE 4: MANAGING CONFLICT

Emotional Intelligence

Cultural Intelligence

Coordinated Management of Meaning (CMM)

CMM Tools

Dynamic Problem Solving

Negotiation Field Guides

Advanced Negotiation Techniques

MODULE 5: MOVING TO ACTION WITH RISK MANAGEMENT EVALUATION AND MAINTAINING RELATIONSHIPS

Basics of Risk Management

Telling Risk Management Stories

Evaluating Transdisciplinary Research

Theory of Change

Examples of Great Champions

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Provides strong foundational knowledge for environmental project leaders

Instructors are recognized experts in environmental project management

Teaches the importance of stakeholder collaboration in addressing socio-environmental problems

Explores transdisciplinary approaches to problem-solving

Develops skills in stakeholder engagement, conflict management, and negotiation

Requires prerequisite coursework in stakeholder outreach

Reviews summary

Understanding stakeholder collaboration

According to students, this course provides in-depth knowledge about stakeholder collaboration, particularly using empathy and understanding to work effectively with diverse communities on environmental projects. Learners say the course includes videos, notes, assessments, and resources that provide a strong foundation for collaborating with stakeholders.

Provides a strong foundation for collaborating with stakeholders.

"...provide a great base for collaborating with stakeholders."

Provides thorough materials, including videos, notes, assessments, and resources.

"The videos, notes, assessments, and resources are very thorough..."

Emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding in stakeholder collaboration.

"Really in-depth course about how using empathy and understanding of others can help bring knowledge from a diverse array of communities together..."

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 Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions with these activities:

Explore Online Resources on Adaptive Governance

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Adaptive governance is a key concept for managing complex socio-environmental systems.

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Identify reputable websites and organizations that provide information on adaptive governance.
Review articles, case studies, and other resources on the topic.
Summarize your findings and share them with your peers.

Read 'Cracking Complexity' by David Benjamin and David Komlos

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This book provides a deeper understanding of the concept of complexity, which is crucial for tackling socio-environmental problems.

View Cracking Complexity: The Breakthrough Formula... on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of the book.
Read Chapter 1: The Challenge of Complexity.
Summarize the key concepts of requisite variety and transdisciplinary approaches.

Practice Facilitating Group Discussions

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Effective facilitation skills are essential for managing collaborative projects.

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Find opportunities to facilitate group discussions, such as workshops or meetings.
Prepare an agenda and materials for the discussion.
Practice active listening and conflict resolution techniques.

Six other activities

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Develop a Problem Statement for a Socio-Environmental Issue

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Crafting a well-defined problem statement is essential for effective project management in socio-environmental contexts.

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Identify a specific socio-environmental issue of interest.
Research and gather information on the issue.
Define the problem in clear and concise terms.
Identify the key stakeholders involved in the issue.

Create a Stakeholder Engagement Plan

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Developing a stakeholder engagement plan is crucial for effective collaboration in socio-environmental projects.

Browse courses on Stakeholder Engagement

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Identify all stakeholders involved in the project.
Analyze stakeholder interests and potential conflicts.
Develop strategies to engage stakeholders effectively.
Outline a communication plan for stakeholder updates.

Volunteer with an Environmental Organization

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Practical experience through volunteering can reinforce your understanding and connect you with stakeholders.

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Identify environmental organizations in your area.
Contact the organizations and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Commit to a regular volunteering schedule and actively participate in projects.

Participate in a Negotiation Skills Workshop

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Negotiation skills are essential for managing conflicts and reaching agreements in socio-environmental projects.

Browse courses on Negotiation

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Identify and register for a negotiation skills workshop.
Attend the workshop and actively participate in exercises and simulations.
Apply the techniques learned in the workshop to your own projects.

Attend a Sustainability Conference or Workshop

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Networking and learning from experts can broaden your perspective and enhance your knowledge.

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Identify and register for a relevant sustainability conference or workshop.
Attend the event and actively participate in discussions and networking sessions.
Follow up with new connections and explore collaboration opportunities.

Write a Blog Post on a Socio-Environmental Case Study

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Writing a blog post allows you to synthesize your knowledge and share insights on real-world applications of socio-environmental project management.

Browse courses on Case study

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Identify a relevant case study.
Analyze the case study and identify key lessons learned.
Write a blog post summarizing the case study and highlighting its implications.

Career center

Learners who complete Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Environmental Planner

An Environmental Planner develops and implements plans for the use and protection of environmental resources. Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions may be useful by providing guidance on how to collaborate with stakeholders and develop sustainable environmental plans.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Planner

Environmental Engineer

An Environmental Engineer designs and implements solutions to environmental problems. Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions may be useful by providing guidance on how to collaborate with stakeholders and develop effective environmental solutions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Engineer

Environmental Lawyer

An Environmental Lawyer represents clients in environmental law cases. Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions may be useful by providing guidance on how to navigate the legal system and advocate for environmental protection.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Lawyer

Policy Advisor

A Policy Advisor provides advice to policymakers on environmental issues. Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions may be useful by providing guidance on how to develop policy recommendations and communicate them to policymakers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Advisor

Nonprofit Manager

A Nonprofit Manager plans, implements, and evaluates programs for nonprofit organizations. Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions may be useful by providing guidance on how to manage projects, collaborate with stakeholders, and evaluate program outcomes.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nonprofit Manager

Community Organizer

A Community Organizer works with communities to identify and address local issues. Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions may be useful by providing guidance on how to engage stakeholders and build consensus on community issues.

See salaries and explore the career path for Community Organizer

Environmental Consultant

An Environmental Consultant provides advice and services to organizations on environmental issues. Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions may be useful by providing guidance on how to collaborate with stakeholders and develop effective environmental solutions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Consultant

Renewable Energy Project Manager

A Renewable Energy Project Manager plans, implements, and evaluates renewable energy projects. Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions may be helpful in developing the skills needed to manage projects, collaborate with stakeholders, and evaluate project outcomes.

See salaries and explore the career path for Renewable Energy Project Manager

Climate Change Analyst

A Climate Change Analyst researches, analyzes, and develops climate change policies. Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions may be helpful in developing the skills needed to conduct research, analyze data, and communicate policy recommendations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Climate Change Analyst

Sustainability Manager

A Sustainability Manager develops and implements sustainability programs for organizations. Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions may be helpful in developing the skills needed to manage projects, collaborate with stakeholders, and evaluate program outcomes.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Manager

Environmental Scientist

An Environmental Scientist conducts research to understand and solve environmental problems. Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions may be helpful in developing the skills needed to conduct research, analyze data, and communicate scientific findings.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist

Environmental Program Manager

An Environmental Program Manager plans, implements, and evaluates environmental programs. Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions may be helpful in developing the skills needed to manage projects, collaborate with stakeholders, and evaluate program outcomes.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Program Manager

Environmental Policy Analyst

An Environmental Policy Analyst researches, analyzes, and develops environmental policies. Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions may be helpful in developing the skills needed to conduct research, analyze data, and communicate policy recommendations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Policy Analyst

Environmental Mediator

An Environmental Mediator helps people work together to resolve conflicts and build consensus on environmental issues. Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions may be helpful by providing tools for managing conflict and negotiation, which are skills that Environmental Mediators use every day.

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Environmental Justice Advocate

An Environmental Justice Advocate engages in creating and maintaining healthy environments in which all people can live, work, and play. Based on the information given, Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions may be useful in providing guidance for getting started with this career through collaboration and problem-solving.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Justice Advocate