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701-1613-01L 5 Credits MSC D-MAVT , D-PHYS , D-ERDW , D-ITET , D-USYS

Landscape Patterns and Processes

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Loïc Pellissier, Dr. Nicole Bauer, Dr. Dirk Karger, Dr. Simona Gradinaru
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:07:58

Abstract

This course introduces landscapes as socially perceived, spatially and temporally dynamic entities that are shaped by natural and societal factors. Concepts and qualitative and quantitative methods to study landscapes from an ecological and societal perspective are presented. The course consists of a mixture of theoretical lectures and exercises or practical sessions.

Objective

Students will learn: - The use of spatial data and analyses for quantifying patterns and processes in landscapes - Concepts and methods to quantify functional connectivity in landscapes and seascapes. - The use of remote sensing (satellites images, drones) to extract information about landscape structure and change, with a focus on land-use. - The use of landscape genetics and its application to biodiversity conservation. - To computationally optimize land-use planning problems. - Concepts and methods in scenario-based land-use change modelling. - Landscape ecological concepts and planning tools for management of urban landscapes. - Concepts of social preference of landscapes and related measurement methods. - how to design urban environments that foster health and well-being - The role of landscape features in influencing human well-being. - Approaches of actively influencing attitudes and behavior toward landscapes as well as their scientific evaluation.

Content

Thematic topics 1. Ecological quantification of landscape patterns: - Landscape resources and green infrastructure (e.g., ecological conservation areas). - Landscape and seascape connectivity. - Landscape genetics and conservation applications. - Concepts of spatial quantitative methods: least cost paths, resistance surfaces, Circuitscape, land-use change models, various statistical methods. - Image processing from remote sensing from satellites and drones. - Modelling future land-use. - Spatial optimization and trade-offs relative to biodiversity, agriculture and energy production. 2. Social perception and of landscapes: - Impact of urbanization on human-nature interactions - Approaches in planning urban landscapes - Theories on landscape preference and place identity. - Role of landscapes for recreation, health and well-being - Methods of investigating the human-landscape relationship and evaluating interventions

Resources

Lecture Notes

Handouts will be available in the course and for download

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 90 minutes
Aids
None
The final course grade will be a weighted average of the session examination (counts 50 %) and a report as a compulsory continuous performance assessment (obligatorisches Leistungselement) during the semester (counts 50 %).Compulsory continuous performance assessment: In groups of 3-4 you will need to hand in a report that covers different type of analysis for a specific region in Switzerland.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Landscape Patterns and Processes No time listed 3 h weekly

Offered In