Integrating scenario based learning and design thinking to strengthen climate resilience in landscape architecture education

In the context of accelerating climate change, design thinking and robust scenario planning are crucial abilities for landscape architects. The case study presented aims at scenario-based learning for landscape architecture students who will face the task of rigorously evaluating their designs for resilience and effectiveness against future climatic challenges. To equip future landscape architects with the skills necessary to navigate these complex challenges, this study utilized a case study of the Přítlucký polder a significant flood protection area in Czech Republic projected to face increased flood events due to climate change. Climate models based on RCP 8.5 forecast a future defined by hydrological extremes for this region, including flash floods and very wet winters, alongside severe summer droughts and over 40 annual days of heatwaves by the end of 21st century. This area, which serves to reduce flood risk for surrounding settlements is also notable for its inclusion in a UNESCO Cultural Heritage site and a newly established Protected Landscape Area, providing an ideal context for training students in the integration of nature and cultural landscape protection with flood risk management. The project involved four international student teams using a three-phase methodology: preparatory research, an intensive on-site workshop, and the development of full-scale scenarios evaluated through Ecosystem Services (ES) assessment. The study yielded four distinct resilience strategies based on rigorous spatial analysis. Findings indicate that students successfully applied systems thinking to quantify trade-offs. The results demonstrate that scenario-based learning combined with ES assessment enables students to move beyond conceptual design and producing actionable strategies.