Experiential, field-based course covering various topics related to the planning, design, and execution of natural and hybrid infrastructure for water resources, civil, and environmental systems. Students explore these topics through fieldwork components, engaging in hands-on activities and gaining practical experience through observing and analyzing interactions of natural and conventional infrastructure.
Athena Title
Field Exp Nat Infra
Non-Traditional Format
Four-day field intensive of 32 contact hours.
Prerequisite
Permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall and spring
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to understand the principles and concepts of natural infrastructure and its role in development of resilient infrastructure systems.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to analyze the complex interactions between natural systems and built infrastructure within a systems context.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios through fieldwork activities focused on natural infrastructure including surveying of physical and biological components and incorporating survey data into designs.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to develop practical skills in assessing, designing, and implementing natural and hybrid infrastructure through case studies on flood management, dam management, protection of transportation assets, and other types of infrastructure.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to evaluate the environmental, social, and economic benefits and challenges associated with natural and hybrid infrastructure projects.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to collaborate effectively with professionals, experts, and stakeholders to address complex issues related to natural and hybrid infrastructure.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to critically evaluate the effectiveness and performance of natural infrastructure projects.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to foster an interdisciplinary approach by integrating knowledge from diverse fields to enhance natural infrastructure practices.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to investigate policy frameworks and regulatory considerations relevant to the planning and implementation of natural infrastructure projects.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to reflect on personal and professional growth in understanding the value and potential of natural infrastructure in addressing resilience challenges in a social context.
Topical Outline
Reinforcing principles and concepts of natural infrastructure and its role in water resource management through field analysis of diverse riverine and coastal systems
Observing complex interactions between natural systems and built infrastructure within the context of water resource management
Applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios through fieldwork activities focused on natural infrastructure
Field analysis and data collection for design and implementation of natural infrastructure for effective water resource management
Field-based aspects of evaluating the performance, effectiveness, and environmental, social, and economic benefits of natural infrastructure projects
Effective collaboration with professionals, experts, and stakeholders in addressing complex issues related to natural infrastructure
Policy frameworks (e.g., NEPA) and regulatory considerations (e.g., permitting) relevant to field analysis and data collection in the planning and implementation of natural infrastructure projects
