Course: SUST 1013 Introduction to Sustainable Resource Management

Mastering the Learning Outcomes

This course is built on key learning outcomes. Units 1 through 8 have covered 13 learning outcomes. Through video presentations, reading assignments, discussion board participation, and written assignments, you have been provided with the knowledge and skills necessary to demonstrate mastery of each outcome. You have also been introduced to the importance of mastering the course outcomes as part of your preparation for a career in Sustainable Resource Management. The learning outcomes for units 1 through 8 are shown on the right.

If you examine each outcome, you will see that you are asked to define, explain, understand, compare, or identify specific terms, processes, tools, or categories of information. Simply being able to recite information provided in the course for each outcome is only part of the review process. To effectively review the outcomes, utilize the following three steps:

1. For each outcome attempt to do exactly what is requested. For example, to identify something is markedly different from making informed comparisons.

2. Attempt to describe each outcome to a friend or colleague not enrolled in the course.

3. Think about ways in which each outcome is important to the practice of sustainable resource management.

At the conclusion of the three steps, you will have a clear understanding of what outcomes you have mastered, and what outcomes need more review, and study. For the outcomes requiring more study, make a simple list of your questions or information needs. This list will serve as an effective study tool as you progress through this unit.
1. Define sustainability, and discuss the triple bottom line concept as it relates to sustainable resource management.
2. Identify the fundamental principles and practices related to waste reduction and reuse, recycling collection, processing and marketing of commodities.
3. Explain the definition of “recycling” and history of residential and commercial recycling systems/programs.
4. Identify the methods used to sort, categorize and measure “waste” materials.
5. Understand the processes and issues related to composting of organics, including collection of food scraps.
6. Describe current trends in recycling practices, research, and market expansion.
7. Explain the Illinois statutory definition of waste, and how IEPA oversees waste management facilities.
8. Compare various disposal options- landfills, incineration, anaerobic digestion, etc.
9. Describe and compare various recovery options for recycling and reuse, including E-Scrap materials.
10. Identify methods for recovery, handling and sale of building materials and household items for reuse.
11. Identify basic data required to begin strategically planning for zero waste/sustainable resource management for communities or large organizations.
12. Explain the resource management system with command of the industry/technical language and the tools employed to eliminate waste, reuse products/packaging and use resources efficiently.
13. Identify local markets for highest and best use of recovered products and materials.