Capacity development challenges and solutions for Natura 2000: an approach through blended learning

Abstract

Capacity development is essential for the effective management of protected areas and for achieving successful biodiversity conservation. European Natura 2000 sites form an extensive network of protected areas and developing the capacity of staff at all levels is a priority that will positively influence the appropriate implementation of conservation actions. In this study we identify the main challenges and potential solutions to developing the skills, knowledge and tools required for effective Natura 2000 site management. Our findings are based on a case study of the European project LIFE e-Natura2000.edu, which focuses on capacity development in practical biodiversity conservation and management through integrated and blended learning experiences (i.e. a combination of face-to-face and virtual teaching). We illustrate the main elements for successfully building capacity within a variety of knowledge and experience backgrounds and operating levels related to the management of Natura 2000 sites. Multifaceted, blended learning approaches are key to tackling the various needs of Natura 2000 managers in terms of skills, knowledge and tools.

Donor perspectives on strengthening capacity development for conservation

“…The Capacity Building for Conservation Conference series (in 2013, 2015, 2017 and 2019) has been an important first step in this process. This conference series has resulted in numerous outcomes, such as new collaborations, new funding relationships, improved communication, as well as the articles comprising this special theme in Oryx focused on conservation capacity development (Appleton et al, 2021; Sandbrook et al, 2021; Sterling et al, 2021; Abu-Bakarr et al, 2022; Bruyere et al, 2022; Campagnaro et al, 2022; Chao et al, 2022; Gerrie et al, 2022; Loffeld et al, 2022a,b; O'Connell et al, 2022; Porzecanski et al, 2022).…”

Adoption of Blended Learning in Indonesian Science Classrooms

“…Blended learning could be defined differently as follows, a learning strategy that makes use of multiple implementation modes to provide significant gains in student learning while reducing instructional expenses and any combination of classroom teaching methods that includes a mix of traditional and innovative teaching techniques (Ali et al, 2023). The most important reasons for the adoption of a blended approach are its value for learning and its cost effectiveness, as well as increased access and learner satisfaction (Campagnaro et al, 2022).…”

Capacity development for conservation

“…It has been widely recognized that as a community we need to develop a more strategic, coordinated and sustainable approach to capacity development at all scales (Campagnaro et al, 2022, O'Connell et al ., 2022). However, although the urgent need for the development of conservation capacity has been identified, until recently there was a paucity of published research to provide guidance on the key knowledge gaps, the effectiveness of different approaches, and future priorities.…”

“…This will also require diverse, effective and resilient leaders (Sandbrook et al, 2021; Webb et al ., 2021). These individuals and their institutions need both technical and functional capacities, but these leaders will also require less tangible skills such as being relational and reflective, trust-building, visioning and problem-solving (Black, 2021; Abu-Bakarr et al, 2022; Campagnaro et al, 2022; Loffeld et al, 2022b). Removing barriers, such as budget, language and location, to accessing relevant learning activities is an important consideration (Chao et al ., 2022).…”