Pius Krütli: Catalogue data in Autumn Semester 2017

Name Dr. Pius Krütli
Name variantsPius Krütli
Pius Kruetli
Pius Krutli
Address
Dep. Umweltsystemwissenschaften
ETH Zürich, CHN K 78
Universitätstrasse 16
8092 Zürich
SWITZERLAND
Telephone+41 44 632 63 24
E-mailpius.kruetli@usys.ethz.ch
DepartmentEnvironmental Systems Science
RelationshipLecturer

NumberTitleECTSHoursLecturers
701-0007-00LTackling Environmental Problems I Restricted registration - show details
Only for Environmental Sciences BSc.
5 credits4GC. E. Pohl, P. Krütli, B. B. Pearce
AbstractEach year in the case study we analyse a different problem from the field of sustainable development and develop solutions to it.
Learning objectiveStudents 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.
ContentIn 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 notesStudents will compile the case study dossier.
LiteratureLiterature on methods will be provided during the case study course.
701-1543-00LTransdisciplinary Methods and Applications3 credits2GP. Krütli, M. Stauffacher
AbstractThe course deals with transdisciplinary (td) methods, concepts and their applications in the context of case studies and other problem oriented research projects. Td methods are used in research at the science-society interface and when collaborating across scientific disciplines.
Students learn to apply methods within a functional framework. The format of the course is seminar-like, interactive.
Learning objectiveAt the end of the course students should:

Know:
-Function, purpose and algorithm of a selected number of transdisciplinary methods

Understand:
-Functional application in case studies and other problem oriented projects

Be able to reflect on:
-Potential, limits, and necessity of transdisciplinary methods
ContentThe lecture is structured as follows:

- Overview of concepts and methods of inter-/transdisciplinary integration of knowledge, values and interests (approx. 20%)
- Analysis of a selected number of transdisciplinary methods focusing problem framing, problem analysis, and impact (approx. 50%)
- Practical application of the methods in a broader project setting (approx. 30%)
Lecture notesHandouts are provided by the lecturers
LiteratureSelected scientific articles and book-chapters
701-1551-00LSustainability Assessment3 credits2GP. Krütli, C. E. Pohl
AbstractThe course deals with the concepts and methodologies for the analysis and assessment of sustainable development. A special focus is given to the social dimension and to social justice as a guiding principle of sustainability as well as to trade-offs between the three dimensions of sustainability.

The course is seminar-like, interactive.
Learning objectiveAt the end of the course students should

Know:
- core concepts of sustainable development, and;
- the concept of social justice as a core element of social sustainability;
- important empirical methods for the analysis and assessment of local / regional sustainability issues.

Understand and reflect on:
- the challenges of trade-offs between the different goals of sustainable development;
- and the respective impacts on individual and societal decision-making.
ContentThe course is structured as follows:
- Overview of rationale, objectives, concepts and origins of sustainable development;
- Importance and application of sustainability in science, politics, society, and economy;
- Sustainable (local / regional) development in different national / international contexts;
- Analysis and evaluation methods of sustainable development with a focus on social justice;
- Trade-offs in selected examples.
Lecture notesHandouts.
LiteratureSelected scientific articles & book chapters