Soil Science and Land Use
Soil Science and Land Use investigates the vital role that soils play in sustaining ecosystems, supporting agriculture, and shaping human settlements. This course offers an in-depth look at soil formation processes, the physical, chemical, and biological properties that define soil quality, and the intricate interactions between soils and other environmental factors. Students will learn how soil influences plant growth, water availability, nutrient cycling, and biodiversity—ultimately discovering why healthy soils are the foundation of food security, climate resilience, and sustainable land management.
As learners progress through the course, they will examine how human activities—such as intensive agriculture, urban development, deforestation, and mining—alter soil systems and land use patterns. Case studies will highlight both successful land management strategies and the consequences of soil degradation. By the end of the course, students will be able to assess soil conditions, interpret soil data, and propose management techniques that enhance soil health, conserve resources, and promote balanced land-use planning for current and future needs.
Curriculum
- 5 Sections
- 10 Lessons
- 0m Duration
Section 1: Soil Formation, Classification, and Properties
- Module 1.1: Pedogenesis and Soil Horizons
- Module 1.2: Physical, Chemical, and Biological Properties
Section 2: Soil Fertility, Nutrients, and Productivity
- Module 2.1: Nutrient Cycling and Soil Fertility
- Module 2.2: Soil-Plant Relationships and Crop Production
Section 3: Land Use and Soil Management
- Module 3.1: Agriculture, Forestry, and Urbanization
- Module 3.2: Soil Degradation and Erosion Control
Section 4: Soil Contamination and Remediation
- Module 4.1: Pollutants in Soil and Their Effects
- Module 4.2: Remediation and Restoration Techniques
Section 5: Soils in a Changing Environment
- Module 5.1: Climate Change and Soil Processes
- Module 5.2: Integrated Approaches and Future Outlook