Wetland conservation is not just an ecological challenge—it is also deeply shaped by social, political, and cultural factors. This course explores how competing stakeholder interests, policy frameworks, and governance structures influence wetland management and restoration. Learners will examine the role of public, private, and social sectors in conservation efforts, as well as strategies for fostering equitable and culturally sensitive stakeholder engagement. Through case studies, the course highlights both successful collaborations and the consequences of stakeholder exclusion in environmental decision-making. By the end, learners will gain a comprehensive understanding of how human dynamics shape wetland conservation outcomes.
Wetland Conservation Through a Human Lens
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level
Some related experience required
10 hours to complete
3 weeks at 3 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
What you'll learn
Analyze the social, political, & cultural factors that influence wetland conservation, including the roles of stakeholders, policy, & governance.
Evaluate strategies for equitable and culturally sensitive stakeholder engagement in wetland management.
Details to know
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Recently updated!
March 2025
Assessments
6 assignments
Taught in English
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There are 4 modules in this course
You will become familiar with the course, your classmates, and our learning environment. The orientation will also help you obtain the technical skills required for the course. Wetlands provide vital ecosystem services that support biodiversity, water quality, and climate regulation, making their conservation and management critical. This module explores the concept of ecosystem services, focusing on their significance in wetland conservation efforts. You will also examine the diverse stakeholders involved, how their priorities shape decision-making, and the trade-offs that arise when competing interests lead to conflicts over wetland use. Through this exploration, you will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of balancing conservation and resource demands.
What's included
14 videos6 readings2 assignments1 discussion prompt
This module explores the roles of the public, private, and social sectors in shaping wetland conservation and policy. You will compare how each sector influences decision-making and assess the benefits of cross-sector collaboration in achieving conservation goals. The module also introduces key tools for social and political analysis, providing insight into how they can be applied to wetland management and policy development. By the end, you will have a deeper understanding of the interconnected forces driving wetland conservation efforts.
What's included
11 videos2 readings1 assignment
This module examines the role of stakeholder engagement in environmental decision-making, with a focus on wetland conservation. You will explore the structural, economic, social, and political barriers that can limit participation in conservation efforts. The module also introduces strategies for fostering respectful, equitable, and meaningful engagement with culturally diverse communities. By the end, you will understand the importance of inclusive decision-making and how to navigate challenges in stakeholder collaboration.
What's included
9 videos3 readings1 assignment
Effective stakeholder engagement is essential for sustainable environmental decision-making and governance. In this module, you will examine real-world examples of successful stakeholder engagement across diverse contexts, identifying key factors that contribute to positive outcomes. Through case studies and critical analysis, you will also explore the consequences of stakeholder exclusion and its broader implications for policy and resource management. By the end of the module, you will develop a deeper understanding of inclusive decision-making strategies and their role in addressing complex environmental challenges.
What's included
7 videos5 readings2 assignments
Instructor
Offered by
Recommended if you're interested in Environmental Science and Sustainability
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
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Frequently asked questions
Yes! Although completion of the Coursera course alone is not credit-bearing, it is a required component of a graduate-level Canvas course that can be "stacked" toward advanced credentials such as an academic (transcriptable) graduate certificate or a degree. If you decide to pursue further education, the credits you earn from this course can be applied toward a formal academic program, provided that you meet all the requirements of admission to the certificate or degree. Learn more about the Wetland Science and Conservation Graduate Certificate.
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