J. F. Clewett

Development and accreditation of an applied climate education unit for sustainable land use in Australia

ABSTRACT In recent years, there have been significant developments in climate science relevant to agriculture and natural resource management. Assessing impacts of climate variability and use of seasonal climate forecasts have become increasingly important elements in the management “toolkit” for many Australian farmers. Consideration of climate change further increases the need for improved management strategies. While climate risk extension activities have kept pace with advances in climate science, a national review of the Vocational Education and Training system in Australia in relation to “weather and climate” showed that these topics were “poorly represented” at the management level in the Australian Qualifications Framework, and needed increased emphasis. Consequently, a new Unit of Competency concerning management of climatic risk was developed and accredited to address this deficiency. The objective of the unit was to build knowledge and skills for better management of climate variability via the elements of surveying climatic and enterprise data; analysing climatic risks and opportunities; and developing climatic risk management strategies. This paper describes establishment of a new unit for vocational education that is designed to harness recent developments in applied climate science for better management of Australias highly variable climate. The main benefits of the new unit of competency, “Developing climatic risk management strategies,” were seen as improving decisions in climate and agriculture, and reducing climate risk exposure to enhance sustainable agriculture. The educational unit is now within the scope of agricultural colleges, universities, and registered training organisations as an accredited unit.

Applied Climate Education and Training for Agricultural and Natural Resource Management in India, Indonesia, Zimbabwe and Australia

Abstract In parts of the world, including many developing countries, climate variability impacts negatively on agricultural production and natural resource management. Workshops in applied climatology were held in Australia, India, Indonesia and Zimbabwe between 1999 and 2002 to provide farmers and agricultural and meteorological staff a better understanding of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation phenomenon, associated climate variability, its forecast potential and its relevance to their local agriculture system. Most participants saw climate information skills as essential or useful in their work but few had good skills. Through discussions, learning outcomes were established and resource materials developed in Australia were adapted for use in the other countries. Educational course material was developed for workshops and for vocational and tertiary education. This material was developed in multimedia and print format suited to different learning styles. Workshops incorporated sessions on local climate, a climate analysis tool to assist forecasting, application of forecasts, communication and evaluation. Post-workshop surveys demonstrated improved knowledge and skills of participants with a need for further training in risk management strategies relating to agricultural systems. This was identified by a skills audit during the workshops and could form the basis for an advanced training programme.

Identifying needs and enhancing learning about climate change adaptation for water professionals at the post-graduate level

Using a participatory learning approach, we report on the delivery and evaluation of a climate change and risk assessment tool to help manage water risks within the agricultural sector. Post-graduate water-professional students from a range of countries, from both developed and emerging economies were involved in using this tool. Our approach included participative learning tools – group discussion, software, and risk matrices. The materials developed met the needs of the students, allowing these students to incorporate their learning and adapt the package of materials for use in their home countries. Analysis of evaluations show that the tools and materials are particularly useful and emphasizes the need for sound learning materials and tools, funding to deliver training, and policy support to accelerate education and adoption of authentic climate change adaptation practices. The expected benefits for water professionals about climate change will be translated into improved socioeconomic and environmental outcomes if adopted.