Overview
HERM 474: World Heritage Studies I will explore different aspects of World Heritage with a focus on theoretical foundations and frameworks. It will provide an understanding of World Heritage concepts, processes, and tools. It will examine current knowledge on the World Heritage Convention, its Operational Guidelines, and other supporting documents. In particular, the course will study the Convention text, World Heritage definitions and terminology, and governance structures and actors, as well as the fundamental concepts and procedures used to identify, protect, and conserve World Heritage sites. It will explore the meaning of Outstanding Universal Value and its attributes and the key threshold to inscription on the World Heritage List. It will provide basic knowledge on management and monitoring requirements and reporting mechanisms for World Heritage properties. The course will conclude with perspectives on global threats and contemporary challenges in the field of World Heritage. The course will use case studies from Canada and around the world to analyze a series of approaches to World Heritage conservation and management.
Learning outcomes
By completing HERM 474: World Heritage Studies I, you will develop a foundation in World Heritage concepts, processes, and tools. After completing the course, you should be able to
- describe the origin, purpose, and scope of UNESCO’s World Heritage Convention;
- explain World Heritage terminology and governance structures;
- outline the process for inscribing sites on the World Heritage List;
- analyze the processes and tools that contribute to the protection and conservation of World Heritage sites; and
- examine global threats and success stories in implementing the World Heritage Convention.
Evaluation
To receive credit for HERM 474, you must participate in the online discussion activities, successfully complete all the assignments, and achieve a minimum course composite grade of D (50 percent).
| Activity | Weight |
| Assignment 1: Online Participation (readings, discussions) (ongoing) | 20% |
| Assignment 2: Online Participation (synchronous virtual meetings) (ongoing) | 10% |
| Assignment 3: Create an Informative Brochure | 10% |
| Assignment 4: Report on a Conservation Issue | 15% |
| Assignment 5: Research Paper—Part I | 10% |
| Assignment 5: Research Paper—Part II | 35% |
| Total | 100% |
To learn more about assignments and examinations, please refer to Athabasca University’s online Calendar.