After studying the SA skills course the students are able to:
• describe the field of foresight in general
• typify different forward-looking methods, in particular the scenario analysis method
• explain the logic behind and the basic steps of the process of scenario development
• apply the scenario analysis in the context of an issue at stake (case study)
• discuss critically the policy lessons that can be drawn from the case study work
• to work interdisciplinary, to connect insights from different knowledge domains in a future
oriented exploration

Sustainability Assessment (SA) can be defined as a structured process dealing with a sustainability issue, using knowledge from various scientific disciplines and/or stakeholders, such that integrated insights are made available to decision makers. Applying SA in practice requires specific skills. The aim of this skills course is that students learn to apply some widely-used methods/tools of SA, and become familiar with its rules of application, strengths, and pitfalls.

One of the core questions in sustainability science is "How can the future be scanned in a creative, rigorous and policy-relevant manner that reflects the normative character of sustainability and incorporates different perspectives?" (Swart et al 2004). This course offers insight and practical exercise in key foresight approaches such as trend analyses and scenario development.

Exchange students should refer to the International Relations Office via email in case they would like to register for this course: iro-incoming-sbe@maastrichtuniversity.nl. Only limited spots available, first-come first-serve principle.