SESYNC’s collection of open-access resources is for anyone interested in learning, teaching or researching about socio-environmental (S-E) systems and sustainability. Our resources come in a variety of formats; learn more about each of them below to find which ones are right for you and your goals.
For a downloadable PDF of this Explainer, click below:
Explainers
SESYNC Explainers are brief, informal articles that summarize a SESYNC or S-E-related topic, concept, or methodology. Explainers are ideal for those who are new to a subject and are seeking a brief, non-technical introduction. Examples include:
- Resilience Theory and Socio-Environmental Systems
- What Is Actionable Research?
- Qualitative Synthesis Methods: Critical Interpretive Reviews, Narrative Reviews, Expert Opinions
Case Studies
SESYNC Case Studies use real-world examples of S-E problems to illustrate the synthesis research process. Each case study provides information about the case itself, detailed teaching notes, and student-activity materials, while focusing on learning goals that are critical for understanding and practicing S-E synthesis. Examples include:
- Our Coffee Conundrum: The Socio-Environmental Issues of Our Cultural Addiction
- Collaborative Water Governance and Social-Hydrological Justice
- To Plant or Not to Plant? Regulating Invasive Plant Species in the Mid-Atlantic States
Learning Materials
SESYNC Learning Materials provide a more advanced, in-depth exploration of S-E topics and approaches using various media. They include videos, audio interviews, slides, and more. Learning materials are ideal for both individual and group instruction, as well as self-taught learners who are interested in broadening their understanding of more specific S-E topics. Examples include:
- Critical Political Ecology
- Interview: Putting People into Climate Models—A New Frontier
- Applying Environmental Economics to Policy: Taxes, Fees, Cap & Trade
Lessons
SESYNC Lessons provide structured content for educators to use in classroom or workshop instruction using timely, relevant S-E examples. They are suitable for undergraduates and above. Lessons include an overview of the topic, learning objectives, key concepts/topics, and background information for the instructor. They also provide activities for engaging learners; assignments; and supplemental materials for educators, including videos, articles, slides, etc. Examples include:
- Community Gardens: Justice, Safety, and Climate Solutions
- Sustainable Agriculture: Strategic Reductions in Food Waste
- Marine Spatial Planning for Sustainability: An Example of a Semi-Qualitative Synthesis Approach
Data Lessons/Guides
SESYNC Data Lessons/Guides convey the wisdom of SESYNC’s data scientists to help researchers use their data more effectively. Examples include: