Understanding the relationship between conservation and community within the context of human wellbeing and development is crucial if you are to be an effective conservation scientist. You will consider the role conservation agents play in the development of rural communities and how rural development processes might, in turn, underpin conservation goals. You will cover issues including: the changing status and role of local communities in 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
and integrating conservation and development goals into the management of protected areas. As a professional conservation scientist or practitioner, it is essential that you are able to place these concerns in theoretical and applied contexts and so through this module you will learn about examples from a range of geographical and cultural settings. Through afield component, you will gain a first-hand perspective from conservation practitioners, local businesses, and other stakeholders about practical aspects of rural development and biodiversity conservation. You will become familiar with practical tools for successful management of conservation embedded in local communities and you will analyse the strengths and weaknesses of conservation in a rural development context. Furthermore, the assessments will provide you with an opportunity to develop and practice the social science research skills required to effectively manage conservation projects in a manner sympathetic to livelihoods and rural development objectives.
Lectures 12, Seminars 20
The module is optional for the following courses
MSc Conservation Science
Also available as an elective module.
Visual Representation. Assessment Details: Poster worth 25%.
Short Writing Piece. Assessment Details: Briefing paper 1000 words worth 25%.
Report. Assessment Details: Group consultancy report 4000 words per group worth 50%.
Reassessment Method: Like-for-like (different topic choice where specified).
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.
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
1. apply a systematic understanding of knowledge and specialist theoretical and methodological approaches to demonstrate a critical awareness of the interactions between conservation, society and the economy;
2. synthesize advanced and specialist information to critically discuss the principle theoretical approaches used in conservation and development, and evaluate and apply them in their own work;
3. recognise, evaluate and critically consider any moral and ethical issues related to the relationship of researcher with the study community, and select and adapt appropriate advanced conceptual frameworks to characterise the issues;
4. demonstrate a critical understanding of professional skills such as stakeholder analysis, consultation techniques, and project cycle management and apply them in real-life projects;
5. demonstrate an ability to work independently and in teams to conduct social surveys and interviews and assimilate advanced and specialist information and ideas from a wide variety of sources to write report of relevance to different interest groups involved in conservation and community development.
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.
