FW 325: Seeking Solutions to
Global Crises in
Resource Ecology
Course Overview
Students will examine the ecological and socioeconomic impacts of four human-driven “wicked problems”- overpopulation, climate change, deforestation, and overfishing. These global crises are complex and often interconnected, making them difficult to solve and requiring collaborative approaches and systems thinking.
In this course, you’ll work in teams to investigate the drivers, pathways, and consequences of each crisis, and consider how different communities and stakeholders are affected. Together, you will apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to evaluate a range of potential responses and design scalable, interdisciplinary solutions that balance human needs with long-term ecological sustainability. This work will promote holistic thinking and inclusive, science-informed decision-making—better equipping you to contribute to effective conservation efforts in an increasingly complex and rapidly changing world.
Visit classes.oregonstate.edu for more information and to register.
Additional Information
Students with term class standing Freshman or Sophomore may not enroll.
Course Attributes:
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Bacc Core, Synthesis - Global Issues (CSGI)
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Core Education - Seeking Solutions (CSSS)
This class is offered at Hatfield Marine Science Center. Additional times (earlier mornings) as part of the field component of this course. Possible field trip activities as assigned by instructor. Housing is available on-site but is limited. Students interested in residing at Hatfield should complete a housing application by priority deadlines listed on the housing website