Why do some conservation projects succeed and other fail? How do conservation teams make tough decisions when mistakes or failure might lead to extinction of a species? The success of conservation projects at the species or ecosystem level is determined by the ability of those in charge. You will gain knowledge in leadership and ability to manage conservation teams and individuals involved in delivering success within a conservation context You will, as a professional conservation scientist or practitioner, need to match your desire for scientific understanding about biodiversity with an appreciation of the social skills required to manage and lead conservation programmes if you are to make more efficient and effective use of the resources that you have. You will begin by reflecting on the qualities required within a leader and how a leader’s management style can impact on others within an organisation. You will then consider the extent to which we can apply management theory to the practice of endangered species and habitat recovery and the people involved in making it happen. You will go on to consider different approaches to managing conflict within teams and balancing organisational and individual expectations and how to manage motivation and morale. By drawing on examples from both the business world and conservation community, you will consider different models for developing and managing teams and discover how you can get the best out of your team to achieve conservation success.
Lectures 12, Seminars 20
The module is optional for the following courses
MSc Conservation Science
Also available as an elective module.
Report. Assessment Details: Evaluation report 2,500 words (excl refs) worth 70%.
Short Writing Piece. Assessment Details: Leadership guide 1,500 words (excl refs) worth 30%.
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 advanced principles, concepts, theoretical frameworks and approaches regarding the function of a manager and leader within conservation programmes and the personal attributes required for the role;
2. Systematically and critically analyse and evaluate the theory and practice of team development and demonstrate advanced theories about managing individual expectations through time;
3. Adapt advanced methods and techniques to demonstrate a critical awareness in detail of how to manage performance within people and organisations and be able to apply methodologies to evaluate achievement of conservation outcomes;
4. Adapt appropriate advanced problem-solving strategies, methods and techniques to demonstrate how leadership models and modes of practice can be applied to organisational effectiveness;
5. Systematically organise and communicate advanced information about effective and ineffective leadership styles and apply them within a conservation project context.
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