Search result: Catalogue data in Autumn Semester 2018
Environmental Sciences Bachelor | ||||||
Bachelor Studies (Programme Regulations 2016) | ||||||
Basic Courses I | ||||||
First Year Examinations | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
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529-2001-02L | Chemistry I | O | 4 credits | 2V + 2U | W. Uhlig, J. E. E. Buschmann, S. Canonica, P. Funck, E. C. Meister, R. Verel | |
Abstract | General Chemistry I: Chemical bond and molecular structure, chemical thermodynamics, chemical equilibrium. | |||||
Objective | Introduction to general and inorganic chemistry. Basics of the composition and the change of the material world. Introduction to the thermodynamically controlled physico-chemical processes. Macroscopic phenomena and their explanation through atomic and molecular properties. Using the theories to solve qualitatively and quantitatively chemical and ecologically relevant problems. | |||||
Content | 1. Stoichiometry 2. Atoms and Elements (Quantenmechanical Model of the Atom) 3. Chemical Bonding 4. Thermodynamics 5. Chemical Kinetics 6. Chemical Equilibrium (Acids and Bases, Solubility Equilibria) | |||||
Lecture notes | Online-Skript mit durchgerechneten Beispielen. | |||||
Literature | - Charles E. Mortimer, Chemie - Das Basiswissen der Chemie. 12. Auflage, Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart, 2015. Weiterführende Literatur: Brown, LeMay, Bursten CHEMIE (deutsch) Housecroft and Constable, CHEMISTRY (englisch) Oxtoby, Gillis, Nachtrieb, MODERN CHEMISTRY (englisch) | |||||
401-0251-00L | Mathematics I | O | 6 credits | 4V + 2U | A. Cannas da Silva | |
Abstract | This course covers mathematical concepts and techniques necessary to model, solve and discuss scientific problems - notably through ordinary differential equations. | |||||
Objective | Mathematics is of ever increasing importance to the Natural Sciences and Engineering. The key is the so-called mathematical modelling cycle, i.e. the translation of problems from outside of mathematics into mathematics, the study of the mathematical problems (often with the help of high level mathematical software packages) and the interpretation of the results in the original environment. The goal of Mathematics I and II is to provide the mathematical foundations relevant for this paradigm. Differential equations are by far the most important tool for modelling and are therefore a main focus of both of these courses. | |||||
Content | 1. Single-Variable Calculus: review of differentiation, linearisation, Taylor polynomials, maxima and minima, antiderivative, fundamental theorem of calculus, integration methods, improper integrals. 2. Linear Algebra and Complex Numbers: systems of linear equations, Gauss-Jordan elimination, matrices, determinants, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, cartesian and polar forms for complex numbers, complex powers, complex roots, fundamental theorem of algebra. 3. Ordinary Differential Equations: separable ordinary differential equations (ODEs), integration by substitution, 1st and 2nd order linear ODEs, homogeneous systems of linear ODEs with constant coefficients, introduction to 2-dimensional dynamical systems. | |||||
Literature | - Thomas, G. B.: Thomas' Calculus, Part 1 (Pearson Addison-Wesley). - Bretscher, O.: Linear Algebra with Applications (Pearson Prentice Hall). | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites: familiarity with the basic notions from Calculus, in particular those of function and derivative. Mathe-Lab (Assistance): Mondays 12-14, Tuesdays 17-19, Wednesdays 17-19, in Room HG E 41. | |||||
701-0007-00L | Tackling Environmental Problems I Only for Environmental Sciences BSc. | O | 5 credits | 4G | C. E. Pohl, P. Krütli, B. B. Pearce | |
Abstract | Each year in the case study we analyse a different problem from the field of sustainable development and develop solutions to it. | |||||
Objective | Students are able: - to compile a case study dossier for a given topic. The dossier presents (a) the state of knowledge and (b) the need for further knowledge and action. - to integrate knowledge of diverse perspectives in a qualitative systems model, to identify problems within the system and to suggest possible solutions from a specific stakeholder's perspective. - to make an inquiry on a given subject, structure the results, interpret the results in relation to the research question, write a report and present the results. - name the different roles within a group, explain the role(s) they are suited for, self-organise in groups, identify problems of collaboration and constructively address the problems. | |||||
Content | In the first semester the students compile what is known about the problem, its causes and possible solutions. Each group of students makes an inquiry to a given part of the overall problem. The inquiry includes a thematic as well as stakeholder analysis. During synthesis week, which takes place during semester break, the results of the different part inquiries are integrated in a qualitative system model. The students identify specific problems within the system and develop solutions. Most of the time students work independently in groups. Tutors support the students in key steps. Introductions are given for: - The overall topic of the case study, - Inquiry, scientific writing and managing references (by experts of ETH library), - Role behaviour and collaboration in groups, - Preparing reports, posters and presentations, - Qualitative system modelling (Systaim), - Developing solutions (design thinking, Checklands' soft systems methodology). | |||||
Lecture notes | Students will compile the case study dossier. | |||||
Literature | Literature on methods will be provided during the case study course. | |||||
551-0001-00L | General Biology I | O | 3 credits | 3V | U. Sauer, O. Y. Martin, A. Widmer | |
Abstract | Organismic biology to teach the basic principles of classical and molecular genetics, evolutionary biology and phylogeny. First in a series of two lectures given over two semesters for students of agricultural and food sciences, as well as of environmental sciences. | |||||
Objective | The understanding of some basic principles of biology (inheritance, evolution and phylogeny) and an overview of the diversity of life. | |||||
Content | The first semester focuses on the organismal biology aspects of genetics, evolution and diversity of life in the Campbell chapters 12-34. Week 1-7 by Alex Widmer, Chapters 12-25 12 Cell biology Mitosis 13 Genetics Sexual life cycles and meiosis 14 Genetics Mendelian genetics 15 Genetics Linkage and chromosomes 20 Genetics Evolution of genomes 21 Evolution How evolution works 22 Evolution Phylogentic reconstructions 23 Evolution Microevolution 24 Evolution Species and speciation 25 Evolution Macroevolution Week 8-14 by Oliver Martin, Chapters 26-34 26 Diversity of Life Introdution to viruses 27 Diversity of Life Prokaryotes 28 Diversity of Life Origin & evolution of eukaryotes 29 Diversity of Life Nonvascular&seedless vascular plants 30 Diversity of Life Seed plants 31 Diversity of Life Introduction to fungi 32 Diversity of Life Overview of animal diversity 33 Diversity of Life Introduction to invertebrates 34 Diversity of Life Origin & evolution of vertebrates | |||||
Lecture notes | no script | |||||
Literature | Campbell et al. (2015) Biology - A Global Approach. 10th Edition (Global Edition | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | The lecture is the first in a series of two lectures given over two semesters for students with biology as as a basic subject. | |||||
701-0243-01L | Biology III: Essentials of Ecology | O | 3 credits | 2V | C. Buser Moser | |
Abstract | This lecture presents an introduction to ecology. It includes basic ecological concepts and the most important levels of complexity in ecological research. Ecological concepts are exemplified by using aquatic and terrestrial systems; corresponding methodological approaches are demonstrated. In a more applied part of the lecture threats to biodiversity and the appropriate management are discussed. | |||||
Objective | The objective of this lecture is to teach basic ecological concepts and the different levels of complexity in ecological research: the individual, the population, the community and the ecosystem level. The students should learn ecological concepts at these different levels in the context of concrete examples from terrestrial and aquatic ecology. Corresponding methods for studying the systems will be presented. A further aim of the lecture is that students achieve an understanding of biodiversity, why it is threatened and how it can be managed. | |||||
Content | - Übersicht der aquatischen und terrestrischen Lebensräume mit ihren Bewohnern - Einfluss von Umweltfaktoren (Temperatur, Strahlung, Wasser, Nährstoffe etc.) auf Organismen; Anpassung an bestimmte Umweltbedingungen - Populationsdynamik: Ursachen, Beschreibung, Vorhersage und Regulation - Interaktionen zwischen Arten (Konkurrenz, Koexistenz, Prädation, Parasitismus, Nahrungsnetze) - Lebensgemeinschaften: Struktur, Stabilität, Sukzession - Ökosysteme: Kompartimente, Stoff- und Energieflusse - Biodiversität: Variation, Ursachen, Gefährdung und Erhaltung - Aktuelle Naturschutzprobleme und -massnahmen - Evolutionäre Ökologie: Methodik, Spezialisierung, Koevolution | |||||
Lecture notes | Unterlagen, Vorlesungsfolien und relevante Literatur sind in der Lehrdokumentenablage abrufbar. Die Unterlagen für die nächste Vorlesung stehen jeweils spätestens am Freitagmorgen zur Verfügung. | |||||
Literature | Generelle Ökologie: Townsend, Harper, Begon 2009. Ökologie. Springer, ca. Fr. 70.- Aquatische Ökologie: Lampert & Sommer 1999. Limnoökologie. Thieme, 2. Aufl., ca. Fr. 55.-; Bohle 1995. Limnische Systeme. Springer, ca. Fr. 50.- Naturschutzbiologie: Baur B. et al. 2004. Biodiversität in der Schweiz. Haupt, Bern, 237 S. Primack R.B. 2004. A primer of conservation biology. 3rd ed. Sinauer, Mass. USA, 320 pp. | |||||
701-0027-00L | Environmental Systems I | O | 2 credits | 2V | C. Schär, S. Bonhoeffer, N. Dubois | |
Abstract | The lecture provides a science-based exploration of environmental aspects from three research fields: earth, climate, and health sciences. | |||||
Objective | The students are able to explain important properties of the three environmental systems, to discuss critical drivers, trends and conflicts of their use, and to compare potential solutions. | |||||
Content | The lecture discusses the role of the environmental systems based on selected environmental problems, among these the exploration of raw materials and fossil fuels, climate change and its impacts on man and environment, and the spread and control of infectious diseases in the human population and agricultural systems. | |||||
Lecture notes | Slides are provided by instructors and are accessible via moodle. | |||||
701-0029-00L | Environmental Systems II | O | 3 credits | 2V | B. Wehrli, C. Garcia, M. Sonnevelt | |
Abstract | The lecture provides a science-based exploration of three important environmental systems: Inland waters, forest, and of food systems. | |||||
Objective | The students are able to explain important functions of the three environmental systems, to discuss critical drivers, trends and conflicts of their use and to compare potential solutions. | |||||
Content | Aquatic ecosystems and their function, water use and its impact, water pollution and water treatment, water and health, water technologies, water & energy. Forests and agroforest systems, trends and drivers of land use changes, sustainable forest management. The main functions, trends and challenges of agricultural and food systems are discussed based on the four dimensions of food security (availability, access, utilization of food and stability of the food systems). | |||||
Lecture notes | Lecture notes or other documentation are provided by instructors and accessible via moodle. | |||||
Additional First Year Compulsory Courses | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
252-0839-00L | Informatics | O | 2 credits | 2G | L. E. Fässler, M. Dahinden | |
Abstract | Students learn to apply selected concepts and tools from computer science for working on interdisciplinary projects. The following topics are covered: modeling and simulations, visualizing multi-dimensional data, managing data with lists and tables and with relational databases, introduction to programming, universal methods for algorithm design. | |||||
Objective | The students learn to - choose and apply appropriate tools from computer science, - process and analyze real-world data from their subject of study, - handle the complexity of real-world data, - know universal methods for algorithm design. | |||||
Content | 1. Modeling and simulations 2. Visualizing multidimensional data 3. Data management with lists and tables 4. Data management with a relational database 5. Introduction to macro programming 6. Introduction to programming with Python | |||||
Lecture notes | All materials for the lecture are available at Link | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | This course is based on application-oriented learning. The students spend most of their time working through projects with data from natural science and discussing their results with teaching assistants. To learn the computer science basics there are electronic tutorials available. | |||||
529-0030-00L | Laboratory Course: Elementary Chemical Techniques | O | 3 credits | 6P | N. Kobert, A. de Mello, M. H. Schroth, B. Wehrli | |
Abstract | This practical course provides an introduction to elementary laboratory techniques. The experiments cover a wide range of techniques, including analytical and synthetic techniques (e. g. investigation of soil and water samples or the preparation of simple compunds). Furthermore, the handling of gaseous substances is practised. | |||||
Objective | This course is intended to provide an overview of experimental chemical methods. The handling of chemicals and proper laboratory techniques represent the main learning targets. Furthermore, the description and recording of laboratory processes is an essential part of this course. | |||||
Content | The classification and analysis of natural and artificial compounds is a key subject of this course. It provides an introduction to elementary laboratory techniques, and the experiments cover a wide range of analytic and synthetic tasks: Selected samples (e.g. soil and water) will be analysed with various methods, such as titrations, spectroscopy or ion chromatography. The chemistry of aqeous solutions (acid-base equilibria and solvatation or precipitation processes) is studied. The synthesis of simple inorganic complexes or organic molecules is practised. Furthermore, the preparation and handling of environmentally relevant gaseous species like carbon dioxide or nitrogen oxides is a central subject of the Praktikum. | |||||
Lecture notes | The script will be published on the web. Details will be provided on the first day of the semester. | |||||
Literature | A thorough study of all script materials is requested before the course starts. | |||||
751-0801-00L | Biology I: Laboratory Exercises | O | 1 credit | 2U | E. B. Truernit | |
Abstract | Principles and methods of light microscopy. Preparation of specimen for microscopy; documentation. Anatomy of seed plants: From cells to organs. Special features of plant cells. Anatomy and function of plant organs. Anatomical adaptations to different environments. | |||||
Objective | Capability of preparing biological specimen, microscopy and documentation. Understanding the correlation between plant structure and function at the level of organs, tissues and cells. Awareness of the link between plant anatomy, systematics, physiology, ecology, and development. | |||||
Content | Basics of optics. Principles of light microscopy. Microscope parts and their function. Köhler illumination. Optical contrasting methods. Measuring object sizes with the microscope. Preparation of specimen for light microscopy. Plant tissue staining techniques. Special features of plant cells: Plastids, vacuole, cell wall. Anatomy of seed plants: From cells to organs. Anatomy and function of various plant tissues (epidermis, vascular tissue, wood, etc.). Anatomy and function of different plant organs (root, stem, leaf, flower, fruit, seed). Anatomical adaptations to different environments. | |||||
Lecture notes | Handouts | |||||
Literature | For further reading (not obligatory): Gerhard Wanner: Mikroskopisch-Botanisches Praktikum, Georg Thieme Verlag, Stuttgart. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Groups of a maximum of 30 students. | |||||
Basic Courses II | ||||||
Examination Blocks | ||||||
Examination Block 1 | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
402-0063-00L | Physics II | O | 5 credits | 3V + 1U | A. Refregier | |
Abstract | Introduction to the concepts and tools in Physics, with the help of demonstration experiments. The Chapters treated are Electromagnetism, Refraction and Diffraction of Waves, Elements of Quantum Mechanics with applications to Spectroscopy, Thermodynamics, Phase Transitions, Transport Phenomena. Whenever possible, examples relevant to the students' main field of study are given. | |||||
Objective | Introduction to the scientific methodology. The student should develop his/her capability to turn physical observations into mathematical models, and to solve them. | |||||
Lecture notes | A script will be distributed | |||||
Literature | Friedhelm Kuypers Physik für Ingenieure und Naturwissenschaftler Band 2 Elektrizität, Optik, Wellen Wiley-VCH, 2012 ISBN 3527411445, 9783527411443 Douglas C. Giancoli Physik 3. erweiterte Auflage Pearson Studium Hans J. Paus Physik in Experimenten und Beispielen Carl Hanser Verlag, München, 2002, 1068 S. Paul A. Tipler Physik Spektrum Akademischer Verlag, 1998, 1522 S., ca Fr. 120.- David Halliday Robert Resnick Jearl Walker Physik Wiley-VCH, 2003, 1388 S., Fr. 87.- (bis 31.12.03) dazu gratis Online Ressourcen (z.B. Simulationen): Link | |||||
752-4001-00L | Microbiology | O | 2 credits | 2V | M. Ackermann, M. Schuppler, J. Vorholt-Zambelli | |
Abstract | Teaching of basic knowledge in microbiology with main focus on Microbial Cell Structure and Function, Molecular Genetics, Microbial Growth, Metabolic Diversity, Phylogeny and Taxonomy, Prokaryotic Diversity, Human-Microbe Interactions, Biotechnology. | |||||
Objective | Teaching of basic knowledge in microbiology. | |||||
Content | Der Schwerpunkt liegt auf den Themen: Bakterielle Zellbiologie, Molekulare Genetik, Wachstumsphysiologie, Biochemische Diversität, Phylogenie und Taxonomie, Prokaryotische Vielfalt, Interaktion zwischen Menschen und Mikroorganismen sowie Biotechnologie. | |||||
Lecture notes | Wird von den jeweiligen Dozenten ausgegeben. | |||||
Literature | Die Behandlung der Themen erfolgt auf der Basis des Lehrbuchs Brock, Biology of Microorganisms | |||||
401-0624-00L | Mathematics IV: Statistics | O | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | J. Ernest | |
Abstract | Introduction to basic methods and fundamental concepts of statistics and probability theory for practicioners in natural sciences.The concepts are illustrated with some real data examples. The lecture will be held in german. | |||||
Objective | Capacity to learn from data; good practice when dealing with data and recognizing possible fraud in statistics; basic konwoledge about the laws of randomness and stochastic thinking (thinking in probabilities); apply simple methods in inferential statistics (e.g., several hypothesis tests will be introduced). The lecture will be held in german. | |||||
Content | Beschreibende Statistik (einschliesslich graphischer Methoden). Einführung in die Wahrscheinlichkeitsrechnung (Grundregeln, Zufallsvariable, diskrete und stetige Verteilungen, Ausblick auf Grenzwertsätze). Methoden der Analytischen Statistik: Schätzungen, Tests (einschliesslich Vorzeichentest, t-Test, F-Test, Wilcoxon-Test), Vertrauensintervalle, Prognoseintervalle, Korrelation, einfache und multiple Regression. | |||||
Lecture notes | Kurzes Skript zur Vorlesung ist erhältlich. | |||||
Literature | Stahel, W.: Statistische Datenanalyse. Vieweg 1995, 3. Auflage 2000 (als ergänzende Lektüre) | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Die Übungen (ca. die Hälfte der Kontaktstunden; einschliesslich Computerübungen) sind ein wichtiger Bestandteil der Lehrveranstaltung. Voraussetzungen: Mathematik I, II | |||||
Examination Block 2 | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
701-0071-00L | Mathematics III: Systems Analysis | O | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | N. Gruber, M. Vogt | |
Abstract | The objective of the systems analysis course is to deepen and illustrate the mathematical concepts on the basis of a series of very concrete examples. Topics covered include: linear box models with one or several variables, non-linear box models with one or several variables, time-discrete models, and continuous models in time and space. | |||||
Objective | Learning and applying of concepts (models) and quantitative methods to address concrete problems of environmental relevance. Understanding and applying the systems-analytic approach, i.e., Recognizing the core of the problem - simplification - quantitative approach - prediction. | |||||
Content | Link | |||||
Lecture notes | Overhead slides will be made available through Ilias. | |||||
Literature | Imboden, D.S. and S. Pfenninger (2013) Introduction to Systems Analysis: Mathematically Modeling Natural Systems. Berlin Heidelberg: Springer Verlag. Link | |||||
701-0023-00L | Atmosphere | O | 3 credits | 2V | E. Fischer, T. Peter | |
Abstract | Basic principles of the atmosphere, physical structure and chemical composition, trace gases, atmospheric cycles, circulation, stability, radiation, condensation, clouds, oxidation capacity and ozone layer. | |||||
Objective | Understanding of basic physical and chemical processes in the atmosphere. Understanding of mechanisms of and interactions between: weather - climate, atmosphere - ocean - continents, troposhere - stratosphere. Understanding of environmentally relevant structures and processes on vastly differing scales. Basis for the modelling of complex interrelations in the atmospehre. | |||||
Content | Basic principles of the atmosphere, physical structure and chemical composition, trace gases, atmospheric cycles, circulation, stability, radiation, condensation, clouds, oxidation capacity and ozone layer. | |||||
Lecture notes | Written information will be supplied. | |||||
Literature | - John H. Seinfeld and Spyros N. Pandis, Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics: From Air Pollution to Climate Change, Wiley, New York, 1998. - Gösta H. Liljequist, Allgemeine Meteorologie, Vieweg, Braunschweig, 1974. | |||||
701-0501-00L | Pedosphere | O | 3 credits | 2V | R. Kretzschmar | |
Abstract | Introduction to the formation and properties of soils as a function of parent rock, landscape position, climate, and soil organisms. Complex relationships between soil forming processes, physical and chemical soil properties, soil biota, and ecological soil properties are explained and illustrated by numerous examples. | |||||
Objective | Introduction to the formation and properties of soils as a function of parent rock, landscape position, climate, and soil organisms. Complex relationships between soil forming processes, physical and chemical soil properties, soil biota, and ecological soil properties are explained and illustrated by numerous examples. | |||||
Content | Definition of the pedosphere, soil functions, rocks as parent materials, minerals and weathering, soil organisms, soil organic matter, physical soil properties and functions, chemical soil properties and functions, soil formation, principles of soil classification, global soil regions, soil fertility, land use and soil degradation. | |||||
Lecture notes | Lecture notes can be purchased during the first lecture (15.- SFr) | |||||
Literature | - Scheffer/Schachtschabel - Soil Science, Springer, Heidelberg, 2016. - Brady N.C. and Weil, R.R. The Nature and Properties of Soils. 14th ed. Prentice Hall, 2007. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites: Basic knowledge in chemistry, biology and geology. | |||||
Examination Block 3 | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
701-0245-00L | Introduction to Evolutionary Biology Does not take place this semester. Change of semester: This lecture will be offered next time in Spring 2019. | O | 2 credits | 2V | G. Velicer, S. Wielgoss | |
Abstract | This course introduces important questions about the evolutionary processes involved in the generation and maintenance of biological diversity across all domains of life and how evolutionary science investigates these questions. | |||||
Objective | This course introduces important questions about the evolutionary processes involved in the generation and maintenance of biological diversity across all domains of life and how evolutionary science investigates these questions. The topics covered range from different forms of selection, phylogenetic analysis, population genetics, life history theory, the evolution of sex, social evolution to human evolution. These topics are important for the understanding of a number of evolutionary problems in the basic and applied sciences. | |||||
Content | Topics likely to be covered in this course include research methods in evolutionary biology, adaptation, evolution of sex, evolutionary transitions, human evolution, infectious disease evolution, life history evolution, macroevolution, mechanisms of evolution, phylogenetic analysis, population dynamics, population genetics, social evolution, speciation and types of selection. | |||||
Literature | Textbook: Evolutionary Analysis Scott Freeman and Jon Herron 5th Edition, English. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | The exam is based on lecture and textbook. | |||||
Additional Compulsory Courses | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
701-0033-00L | Laboratory Course in Physics for Students of Environmental Sciences | O | 2 credits | 4P | M. Münnich, A. Biland, N. Gruber | |
Abstract | The course provides an individual experience of physical phenomena and the basic principles of experiments. By carrying out simple physical experiments the students learn the proper use measuring instruments, the correct evaluation of report of the measured data and how to interpret the final results. | |||||
Objective | This laboratory course aims to provide basic knowledge of - the setup of a physics experiment, - the use of measurement instruments, - various measuring techniques, - the analysis or measurement errors, - and the interpretations of the measured quantities. | |||||
Content | The students select 6 out of 18 experiments which they like to conduct. For each of these experiments the students will analyze the data they measure estimate the error of there measurements and compare these with the physical theory. | |||||
Lecture notes | Manuals for the experiments are provided online on the Moodle pages of the course. | |||||
701-0105-00L | Mathematics VI:Applied Statistics for Environmental Sciences This course is mandatory for students for whom the study regulation 2016 is binding. Requirement: successful completion of 401-0624-00L Mathematics IV: Statistics. This course will be offered in autumn semester 2018 (for students who started in autumn 2016) and in spring semester 2019 (for students who started in autumn semester 2017). This course will be offered in spring semester only starting with the study year 2019/20. | O | 3 credits | 2G | C. Bigler, M. Kalisch, L. Meier | |
Abstract | Statistical methods from current publications in environmental sciences are presented and applied. Students are enabled to understand the methods, clean datasets, analyse them using the software package R and present the results in a suitable form. They will be able to describe strengths and weaknesses of the methods for given fields of application. | |||||
Objective | Students are able to - use suitable statistical methods for data analysis in their subject area. - characterize data sets using explorative methods - check the suitability of data sets to answer a given question, prepare data sets for import to a statistics program and conduct the analysis. - interpret statistical analyses and process them graphically for use in presentations and publications. - describe the basics of statistical methods used in current publications. - use the software package R for statistical analysis | |||||
Content | Statistische Methoden: Regression (lineare Modelle; generalisierte lineare Modelle, GLMs); Varianzanalyse (ANOVA); gemischte Modelle für gruppierte Daten (mixed-effects models); Fragebogenstatistik; Tests (t Test) Werkzeuge: Explorative Datenanalyse für Hypothesenbildung; Auswahlverfahren für geeignete statistische Verfahren; Datenaufbereitung (Excel -> R; Datenbereinigung); graphische Darstellung von Resultaten; statistische Verfahren in Publikationen erkennen. Wir arbeiten mit dem Softwarepaket R. Form: Im Wochenrhythmus finden alternierend Einführungen in eine neue Methode und Übungsstunden zum Thema statt. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Besuch von "Mathematik IV: Statistik" oder vergleichbare Lehrveranstaltung | |||||
Social Sciences and Humanities | ||||||
Compulsory | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
701-0707-00L | Analysing Arguments in Science and Ethics Number of Participants is limited to 160 This lecture was offered until spring semester 17 under the title: "Analysing Texts". Students who completed this lecture already are not allowed to earn credits for this lecture again. | O | 2 credits | 2G | C. J. Baumberger | |
Abstract | Problems of the environment and sustainable development are complex from a scientific as well as from an ethical point of view. Addressing them requires the ability to deal with arguments. This course provides basic knowledge and methods for reconstructing, analysing and evaluating arguments. We exercise and improve these abilities by using examples from science, ethics and political debates. | |||||
Objective | Students acquire basic knowledge and methods for analyzing arguments. They are able to apply these methods to complex arguments concerning scientific and ethical questions about the environment and sustainable development, and to construct themselves arguments and apply them successfully. Moreover, they are able to evaluate the contribution of arguments to controversial debates with the help of rules. Students acquire thereby a crucial skill for Critical Thinking, which aims at responsible argumentation, communication and action. | |||||
Content | In the sciences as well as in public discussions or in our everyday life, we try to convince others or to achieve consent in matters of disagreement. We do this with the help of arguments. But what are the criteria for arguments to be convincing and for claims to be clear? And how do we expediently feed arguments into a debate? How can we identify and avoid fallacies in reasoning? How do we analyse and define concepts? This course provides basic knowledge of conceptual analysis and argumentation theory as well as methods for identifying, reconstructing and evaluating claims and arguments. Its focus is on systematically addressing the following two questions: What do you mean? How do you know? The first question aims at a better understanding of the claim in question, the second at assessing the reasons that support or undermine the claim. We exercise and improve the abilities to address these questions by using texts on scientific and ethical questions concerning the environment and sustainable development. The course provides thus crucial skills for Critical Thinking, which aims at responsible argumentation, communication and action. | |||||
Lecture notes | A textbook will be used, and handouts will be available. | |||||
Literature | Brun, Georg; Gertrude Hirsch Hadorn. 2014. Textanalyse in den Wissenschaften. Inhalte und Argumente analysieren und verstehen. Zürich: vdf/UTB 3139 (2nd edition) Bowell, Tracy; Kemp, Gary. 2014. Critical Thinking. A Concise Guide. New York. Routledge. (4th Edition) Eemeren, Frans van; Grootendorst, Rob; Henkemans, Francisca Snoeck. 2010. Argumentation. Analysis, Evaluation, Presentation. New York: Routledge. Pfister, Jonas. 2013. Werkzeuge des Philosophierens. Stuttgart: Reclam. Sinnott-Armstrong, Walter; Fogelin; Robert. 2015. Understanding Arguments. An Introduction to Informal Logic. Concise. Stanford: Cenage Learning. (9th Edition) | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | This is a compulsory course in the social sciences and humanities in the second year of the BA Environmental sciences. For 2 ECTS-credits, all written tasks that are distributed during the course need to be solved. |
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