101-0259-00L  River Restoration

SemesterSpring Semester 2024
LecturersV. Weitbrecht, S. Knecht-Hipp, M. Mende, J. van der Meer, C. Weber
Periodicityyearly recurring course
Language of instructionEnglish


AbstractBased on enhanced understanding of river morphodynamics and the ecosystem of riverscapes, the course introduces different river engineering techniques. It copes with the different expectations (space for agriculture, water for energy production, flood protection...) towards riverscapes in modern society.
The students work on a project study with the goal of restoring a given river section.
Learning objectiveDuring this course, the students learn how to
- describe the most important relations in river morphodynamics and their impact on the ecosystem of riverscapes
- elaborate solutions within river restoration, dealing with the different societal expectations towards riverscapes.
- deal with personal, social and technical obstacles in the planning of a river restoration project.
ContentRiver restoration aims to reestablish near natural processes in
riverscapes to increase habitat quality and biodiversity. Based on enhanced understanding of river morphodynamics, the course introduces different engineering techniques with focus on sediment transport processes and flood protection. In addition, the course aims to cope with the different expectations (space for agriculture, water for energy production, flood protection, nature protection...) towards riverscapes in modern society.

During the semester, the students work on a project study with the goal of restoring a river section with a certain focus topic. It follows a student-centered apporach, with field trips, a role play and interactive coaching sessions together with river restoration experts from engineering practice.
Lecture notesNo lecture notes
LiteratureLiterature recommendations are given during the semester
Prerequisites / NoticeHighly recommended as a technical preparation: River Engineering (Course 101-0258-00L, Autumn Semester)
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingassessed
Media and Digital Technologiesassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
Project Managementassessed
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Leadership and Responsibilityfostered
Self-presentation and Social Influence fostered
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityfostered
Creative Thinkingfostered
Critical Thinkingassessed
Integrity and Work Ethicsfostered
Self-awareness and Self-reflection assessed
Self-direction and Self-management fostered