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Linking Behavioral Science to the Protection of Ocean and Coastal Resources and Ecosystems
Behavior change is an important part of achieving a sustainable future. However, research tells us that knowledge and awareness are generally not sufficient to inspire behavior change and other approaches are needed. This one-day short course provides a comprehensive overview for how practitioners can incorporate the science of behavior change into the design of projects and programs to protect ocean and coastal resources and ecosystems. Students will receive instruction in conservation psychology and behavior change strategies and tools that can strengthen community programs, including community-based social marketing. Topics covered include behavior selection and prioritization, tools of behavior change, and choosing the right tool for the job. Participants will work on group exercises to understand how to apply behavior change strategies to actual programs and projects to address a wide variety of issues, from water quality to fish and wildlife habitat protection.

Who Should Attend:

  • Non-profit organizations
  • Foundations
  • Natural Resource Managers
  • Conservation Biologists
  • Public officials
  • Psychologists
  • Students

Note: This course is limited to 20 students and will be held at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, Vaughan Hall 100 | 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Special Instructor: Wesley Schultz, Ph.D.

  • Wesley Schultz has more than 20 years experience teaching and conducting research on the behavioral foundations of sustainability. He is Professor of Psychology at California State University, San Marcos, and has served as Scientific Advisor to numerous businesses and governmental organizations, including ENERGY STAR, CalEPA, and Keep America Beautiful. He currently serves as President of the Environmental Psychology Division (4) of the International Association of Applied Psychology (IAAP), and he is on the editorial board for the Journal of Environmental Psychology.

Course Number: ENVR-80001
Credit: 0.00 unit(s)