Overview

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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. This course is part of the College of ACES suite of online programs. To learn more about online programs from the College of ACES and explore ways to apply your Coursera work toward a degree program at the University of Illinois, visit: https://acesonline.illinois.edu/.

Syllabus

Orientation & Module 1 | Competing Management & Conservation Priorities

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.

Module 2 | Social & Political Aspects of Wetland Restoration, Management, & Conservation

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.

Module 3 | Effective & Culturally Sensitive Stakeholder Engagement

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.

Module 4 | Case Studies & Conclusion

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.