Applied Forest and Landscape Management Lab

Course Description:

Capstone course in which students solve complex real-world land-use problems, for which no single correct solution exists. Students work in project teams and take the role of consultants. They integrate the knowledge acquired during their previous studies and deepen their analysis, problem-solving and writing skills.

Each student group is working on a case-study, which is based on a specific problem defined by cantonal authorities. Students are searching information from literature and databases, develop appropriate approaches, gather own data, analyze (geo)data and write a coherent report. Original plans and source documents are available in their original language. Students follow and adapt a systematic problem solving cycle, consisting of: - capturing and formulation of the problem, goal and scope definition - capturing of the actual system state - developing a methodological approach that delivers the results required to solve the problems or questions - evaluating possible solutions and/or scenarios - solution proposal and recommendation to decision-makers