The course is organized into three modules. Each module typically consists of background readings, online video lectures, self-directed tests, self-directed reflection questions, and forum discussions. The topics in each module are as follows.
Module I: Forest Governance
Topic 1.1: Introduction to Forest Governance
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- Importance of Forest Governance to sustainable forest management
- Historical trend in governing the forest resources
Topic 1.2: Concepts, Principles, and Realities of Forest Governance
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- Building Blocks of Good Forest Governance
- The Pillars of Good Forest Governance
- Principles in Good Forest Governance
Topic 1.3: The Role of Forest Governance Institutions
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- Formation of Forest Policies
- The State, Private Sector, and Civil Society
Topic 1.4: Forest Governance in Action
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- National Initiatives
- International Initiatives
Module II: Public Relationship for Sustainable Forestry
Topic 2.1: Introduction to Public Relations
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- Basic Concepts in Public Relations
- Method, tools, and tactics in Public Relations
Topic 2.2: Information Needs Analysis
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- Communities of Practice and the General Public
- Processes in Conducting Information Needs Analysis
Topic 2.3: Communication Strategy Development
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- Definition of Communication Strategy
- Formulating a Communication Strategy
Module III: Forestry for Community Development
Topic 3.1: Introduction to Forestry for Community Development
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- Evolution of Development Thinking in Forestry
- Rationale of Forestry for Local Community Development
Topic 3.2: Forestry as a Development Intervention
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- Understanding the Environment
- The Target Subsystem
- Goals and Objectives
- Technologies
- Agency System
- Impacts
- Feedback
Topic 3.3: Case Studies of Forestry for Local Community Development
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- Philippines
- Thailand
- Nepal
Topic 3.4: Requisites of Success
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- Project Management
- Requisite of Success
Students taking this course should work through the course methodically. You are strongly advised to study the topics in the order that they are presented, but bear in mind that it is always possible to return to particular topics to study them in greater detail.