AGRI302084 Ethnopedology, ethnometeorology and ethnoclimatology: Local knowledge about soil, weather and climate change

Type
Lecture and seminar
Semester hours
2
Lecturer (assistant)
Schunko, Christoph , Vogl, Christian R.
Organisation
Organic Farming
Offered in
Wintersemester 2025/26
Languages of instruction
Englisch
Content

Ethnopedology, ethnometeorology and ethnoclimatology are essential for understanding how local communities perceive and interrelate with soils, weather and climate. These research fields explore local knowledge, practices and beliefs, offering critical insights into the development of agricultural systems that are aligned with local cultural and environmental conditions.
In the winter term of 2025, students explore the critical role of local and traditional knowledge in understanding and addressing the impacts of climate change on agricultural systems. Specifically, the seminar highlights the significance of local knowledge for farmers' perception of weather and climate change, and how these perceptions interact with scientific accounts. Moreover, we examine how local knowledge systems contribute to climate change adaptation, and how local knowledge is addressed and incorporated into global climate change research and policy.
The course combines theoretical insights gained from reading and discussion with the practical application of the materials covered in case studies. Through case studies from various regions around the world, students examine the multi-dimensional impact of climate change on agricultural systems and how farmers use local knowledge – including local knowledge on soils – to adapt to changing socio-ecological conditions.
Previous knowledge expected

No specific previous knowledge expected.
Objective (expected results of study and acquired competences)

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to
•understand the significance of local knowledge systems in farmers’ soil management and perception and adaptation to climate change
•embrace the complexity of soil management and climate change adaptation as multi-dimensional processes that require integrating socio-cultural and ecological perspectives
•critically evaluate and synthesise information from diverse sources, including scientific literature and non-scientific materials, into case studies
You can find more details like the schedule or information about exams on the course-page in BOKUonline.