Nature Connectedness: For a new relationship with nature

Program Overview

This online course from the University of Derby explores the concept of Nature Connectedness and its impact on human well-being, pro-environmental behaviors, and the conservation of wider nature. The course presents an evidence-based approach to understanding nature connectedness and provides practical guidance on improving it through different pathways.

Program Outline

Outline:

The course is made up of eight short units:

• Unit 1 - What is Nature Connectedness?

• This unit defines Nature Connectedness and differentiates it from simple contact with nature.
• It explores differences in nature connectedness and examines how environmental issues and culture demonstrate our failing relationship with nature.
• Unit 2 - Why Nature Connectedness Matters: People
• This unit explores the difference between hedonic and eudaemonic wellbeing and the effect Nature Connectedness has on both types of wellbeing.
• It also explores the evidence base for the role of Nature Connectedness for human wellbeing and mental health and how it can mitigate eco-anxiety.
• Unit 3 - Why Nature Connectedness Matters: Wider Nature
• This unit considers the evidence for the positive effect of nature connectedness on pro-environmental and pro-conservation behaviours.
• Unit 4 - Improving Nature Connectedness: Noticing
• Unit 5 - Improving Nature Connectedness: The pathways framework
• Unit 6 - Pathways Case Studies
• This unit considers how the pathways framework can be effectively applied in different contexts to improve nature connectedness.
• Unit 7 - Using the Pathways Framework and Evaluation
• Unit 8 - Scaling up - Societal Application of the Pathways
• This unit introduces a systems perspective on the pathways and nature connectedness to consider change at a societal level.

Other:

• The course is endorsed by Natural England.
• The research into nature connectedness has been named by Universities UK as one of the UK’s 100 best breakthroughs for its impact.
• The course is free and widely available for anyone to take part in regardless of age, location or education status.
• The learning platform is compatible with screen reader technology to assist those with visual impairments.