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This module explores the relationship between conservation and community in the context of rural development. It considers the role conservation agendas play in the development of rural communities and how rural development processes might, in turn, underpin conservation goals.
Principal issues to be covered are as follows:
• The changing status and role of local communities conservation agendas
• The changing idea of 'development' and its implications for community-based conservation
• The linkages between conservation and ideas of poverty alleviation, rural livelihoods, and human wellbeing
• Integrating conservation and development goals into the management of protected areas.
The module places these concerns in a theoretical and applied context and draws examples from a range of geographical and cultural contexts.
Private Study: 132.5
Contact Hours: 17.5
Total: 150.0
Compulsory to the following course:
• MSc Conservation and Rural Development
Optional to the following courses:
• MSc Conservation Biology
• MSc Conservation and International Wildlife Trade
• MSc Conservation Project Management
Written assignment - 2500 words (80%)
Poster (20%)
Reassessment Instrument: 100% coursework.
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Gain knowledge of historical trends in approaches to rural development, and an understanding of current debates on the relationship to community aspects of conservation
2 Gain an awareness of reflexive issues connected to the relationship of the researcher with the study community
3 Gain an understanding of the principle theoretical issues in community conservation and development, including institutional aspects and governance; the relationship between 'scientific' expertise and local knowledge; the significance of human and indigenous rights; and the relationship between policy and practice.
4 Gain an understanding of the development of professional skills such as stakeholder analysis, consultation techniques, and project cycle management
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