SLM-10806 Design in Land and Water Management 1

Course

Credits 6.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

Subjects of the first five periods of the first year BSc International Land and Water Management.

Contents:

Introduction in design and design processes in relation to land use and land and water management problems is focussed on soil and water conservation and water management interventions. By means of structured tasks, students will first identify and analyse land and water management problems and thereafter consider and assess various design options. Different phases of the detailed design process will be passed through in developing the most appropriate design approach guided by evidence obtained in the field practical and course materials. The course includes a field practical that runs for 2 weeks in Limburg, southern Netherlands which will be the basis for the land and water management case.

Learning outcomes:

After successful completion of this course students are expected to be able to:
- analyse a complex real-life problem (put forward by an external commissioner), by breaking it up into sub items;
- determine the phases and characteristics of the design process;
- observe, measure and make preliminary interpretations of the characteristics of a landscape;
- assess different land use and water management issues and suggest options for soil and water conservation interventions;
- formulate qualitative design criteria for different interventions;
- articulate a basic land and water management design option and determine the pros and the cons of the design;
- understand and reflect on the importance of participative design processes.

Activities:

- attendance of working groups;
- execution of assignments;
- participation in fieldwork;
- oral presentation of design;
- writing report (peer review and reflection).

Examination:

Based on attendance, assignments and reports.

Literature:

A course reader and practical guide will be made available.