We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Richard Arnold, William “Bill” Dennison, John Johnson, Bill Brantley, and Vanessa Vargas-Nguyen

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.

Read more

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.

Syllabus

MODULE 1: COLLABORATING TO SOLVE SOCIO-ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS WITH A TRANSDISCIPLINARY APPROACH
Why Stakeholder Engagement?
Classifying Problems
Read more
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

Save this course

Save Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions to your list so you can find it easily later:
Save

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
Adaptive governance is a key concept for managing complex socio-environmental systems.
Browse courses on Adaptive Governance
Show steps
  • 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
This book provides a deeper understanding of the concept of complexity, which is crucial for tackling socio-environmental problems.
Show steps
  • 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
Effective facilitation skills are essential for managing collaborative projects.
Browse courses on Facilitation
Show steps
  • 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
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Develop a Problem Statement for a Socio-Environmental Issue
Crafting a well-defined problem statement is essential for effective project management in socio-environmental contexts.
Show steps
  • 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
Developing a stakeholder engagement plan is crucial for effective collaboration in socio-environmental projects.
Browse courses on Stakeholder Engagement
Show steps
  • 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
Practical experience through volunteering can reinforce your understanding and connect you with stakeholders.
Show steps
  • 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
Negotiation skills are essential for managing conflicts and reaching agreements in socio-environmental projects.
Browse courses on Negotiation
Show steps
  • 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
Networking and learning from experts can broaden your perspective and enhance your knowledge.
Show steps
  • 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
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
Show steps
  • 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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 Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions.
This classic work on negotiation provides essential principles and strategies for effective collaboration and conflict resolution, offering valuable insights for managing stakeholder interactions and facilitating consensus.
Offers practical advice and tools for navigating challenging conversations, helping participants manage emotions, communicate effectively, and find mutually acceptable solutions.
This comprehensive legal treatise provides a thorough analysis of environmental justice laws, policies, and regulations, offering a critical understanding of the legal framework surrounding environmental protection and social equity.
Introduces the concept of adaptive leadership, emphasizing the importance of understanding and adapting to complex and changing environments, providing valuable insights for managing environmental challenges.
Explores the theory and practice of collaborative governance, providing a framework for understanding and evaluating collaborative efforts in addressing public problems.
Provides an overview of environmental policy, discussing the evolution of environmental policy and regulation, as well as current challenges and future directions.
This classic textbook provides a comprehensive overview of environmental impact assessment, covering the principles, methods, and practice of assessing the environmental impacts of development projects.
This comprehensive handbook provides a state-of-the-art overview of environmental ethics, exploring different ethical perspectives on environmental issues and offering a valuable resource for understanding the ethical dimensions of environmental decision-making.
This reader provides a collection of essays and articles on environmental justice, offering insights into the history, theory, and practice of addressing environmental inequities.

Share

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

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to Stakeholder Collaboration: Organizing for Environmental Justice and Equitable Solutions.
Stakeholder Outreach: Effective Communication of Complex...
Environmental Gamechanger – Lead the Way to Sustainable...
Storytelling with Data using Socio-environmental Report...
Systems Thinking Basics
Sheep in the Land of Fire and Ice
Developing a Systems Mindset
Co-Production: Addressing Complexity with Environmental...
Prediction Mapping Using GIS Data and Advanced ML...
Problem Solving Using Computational Thinking
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 - 2024 OpenCourser