D1. Knowledge and Understanding. Students will acquire knowledge about natural and anthropic environments and learn about the main problems that threaten fauna and ecosystems in general, alongside the main aspects of the digital transformation at the societal and organizational level. D2. Applying Knowledge and Understanding. At the end of the course students will be able to apply their knowledge and understanding of the main characteristics of terrestrial and aquatic environments to the analysis of the main current problems affecting natural and man-made environments and of some of the current management strategies. Besides, they will be able to apply their knowledge of data and digital technologies to examine their impact on specific organizational and social settings. D3. Making judgements. Students will develop a critical opinion on the current global environmental situation, as well as of the impacts of digital technologies on contemporary societies, and will be able to make basic judgements on the main current problems in terms of historical context, issues and theories. D4. Communication skills. At the end of the course, students will be able to clearly articulate their own opinions and will be able to ask questions and participate in discussions on the topics learned. D5. Learning ability. At the end of the course, students will have developed the critical skills essential to understand more complex texts and issues and complex texts and issues and to place them in multidisciplinary contexts.

Understanding of the English language is required. No other prerequisites are required.

The course presents the most impactful digital and environmental trends shaping the context of policy and project interventions in the domain of digital, ecological and social transitions. The course has two parts: (1) Module "Applied ecology and climate change", offering an introduction to environmental dynamics and the impact of human activities on the environment; (2) Module "Digital transformations and emerging technologies, covering the digital transformation's impact on society and organizations.

The study material is provided by the teachers.

Module: Applied Ecology and Climate Change: This module delves into the critical aspects of ecology and ongoing climate changes, focusing on the interplay between human activities and the environment. Basic concepts and principles of ecology and examination of how ecosystems function. Importance of biodiversity, its role in ecosystem health, and the threats it faces. Impact of Human Activities on the Environment: - Analysis of how industrial activities and economic growth affect ecosystems and biodiversity. - Evaluation of the effects of land and water transportation on natural habitats, including habitat fragmentation and pollution. - Exploration of the ecological disruptions caused by non-native species. - Discussion on various forms of pollution and their impact on environmental health and human well-being. - Study of the consequences of urban sprawl on natural habitats and biodiversity, including habitat loss and alteration. - Strategies for integrating natural elements into urban planning and design to enhance sustainability and resilience. Interactive Learning: Addressing Global CO2 Increase and Mitigation • Game-Based Learning Approach: Utilizing interactive simulations and games to understand the global impacts of rising CO2 levels and the importance of reducing carbon footprints. • Exploration of Mitigation Strategies: Identifying and implementing potential solutions to mitigate CO2 emissions, such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, and carbon sequestration techniques. Module: Digital Transformations and Emerging Technologies •

Module “Applied ecology and climate and change” The verification of the student's level of learning is done through an oral interview. The oral examination in the form of an interview includes at least three questions. The objective is to verify the following: (i) the level of knowledge on the topics of the programme, (ii) the degree of mastery of technical vocabulary, and (iii) the ability to develop an argument by applying theoretical knowledge to concrete cases. Module “Digital transformations and emerging technologies” The verification of the student's level of learning is done through a written text, including both multiple choice tests and open-ended questions. The objective is to verify the following: (i) the level of knowledge on the topics of the programme, (ii) the degree of mastery of technical vocabulary, and (iii) the ability to develop an argument by applying theoretical knowledge to concrete cases. GRADING SCHEME The final grade of the course will be the average of the grades obtained for each module. Overall, students will pass the test if their grade is equal or above 18/30. 18/30 will be awarded to those students who demonstrate minimal knowledge of the main topics of the course and of the technical language, as well as limited ability to apply theoretical knowledge adequately to concrete cases. Excellent grades (30 – 30 cum laude) will be awarded to students demonstrating very good knowledge of the topics, very good use of the language, very good analytical skills; the student is able to apply theoretical knowledge to concrete cases in an excellent way.

This course explores topics closely related to one or more goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (SDGs)