Full course description
Course summary:
The Wilderness Stewardship Planning Framework (WSPF) is composed of six different but related components: building a foundation for success, identifying and describing desired conditions, gathering and analyzing information, identifying and selecting indicators, specifying standards, and analyzing and selecting management alternatives. The six components are presented in sequence, though the process of developing an actual framework is likely to be iterative rather than linear. The WSPF is a logical process that assists in understanding, developing, and selecting management action alternatives that ensure the preservation of wilderness character.
Course objectives:
After completing this course, learners should be able to:
- Describe the Wilderness Stewardship Planning Framework.
- Explain how it relates to effective Wilderness Stewardship.
- Identify the six components of the Framework.
- Explain the importance of using the Framework.
- Employ the Framework to develop a Wilderness Stewardship Plan for your area.
Recommended background:
This course is designed to meet the needs of managers in the National Wilderness Protection System. A thorough understanding of the 1964 Wilderness Act is necessary prior to taking this planning course. It is strongly recommended that students taking this course, first take The Wilderness Act of 1964 e-course.
Course topics include:
- Foundation for Success
- Desired Conditions
- Gathering and Analyzing Information
- Identifying and Selecting Indicators
- Specifying Standards
- Management Alternatives
Elements of the course:
- Informational text
- Engaging video
- Interactive practice activities
- Supplemental reference materials
- Informal assessment quizzes
- Final assessment
This course is self-paced, allowing learners the flexibility to complete the course as quickly or slowly as they need.
After completing all course content and activities, you will complete a final quiz to demonstrate your understanding of key course concepts. Upon successful completion of the quiz, you will be awarded a certificate of completion.
Course creators:
This course was designed and developed jointly by the Arthur Carhart Wilderness Training Center and the Eppley Center for Parks and Public Lands at Indiana University.
How to access:
Upon enrolling, you will receive instructions and the link to the Canvas course. Note: When you register, you will receive an email invitation. Be sure to accept that invitation, or Canvas will not allow you to open the course modules.
Enrollees can move through content modules at their own pace within the course timeframe.