701-1350-00L  Case Studies in Environment and Health

Courses

Catalogue data

Abstract	This course will focus on a few individual chemicals and pathogens from different standpoints: their basic chemistry or biology, their environmental behavior, (eco)toxicology, and human health impacts. The course will draw out the common points in each chemical or pathogen's history.
Learning objective	This course aims to illustrate how the individual properties of chemicals and pathogens along with societal pressures lead to environmental and human health crises. The ultimate goal of the course is to identify common aspects that will improve prediction of environmental crises before they occur. Students are expected to participate actively in the course, which includes the critical reading of the pertinent literature and class presentations.
Content	Each class will feature the case study of a different chemical or pathogen that have had a profound effect on human health and the environment. The instructors will present eight to ten of these and the students will present a poster on their own pollutant or pathogen in groups of two. Students will be expected to contribute to the in class discussions and, on their selected topics, to lead the discussion.
Lecture notes	Handouts will be provided as needed.
Literature	Handouts will be provided as needed.
Competencies	Subject-specific Competencies Concepts and Theories assessed Techniques and Technologies fostered Method-specific Competencies Analytical Competencies fostered Decision-making fostered Media and Digital Technologies assessed Problem-solving fostered Project Management assessed Social Competencies Communication fostered Cooperation and Teamwork assessed Leadership and Responsibility fostered Self-presentation and Social Influence fostered Negotiation fostered Personal Competencies Adaptability and Flexibility fostered Creative Thinking fostered Critical Thinking fostered Integrity and Work Ethics fostered Self-awareness and Self-reflection fostered Self-direction and Self-management assessed

Performance assessment

Performance assessment information (valid until the course unit is held again)
Performance assessment as a semester course
ECTS credits	4 credits
Examiners	K. McNeill, T. Julian, M. Scheringer
Type	graded semester performance
Language of examination	English
Repetition	Repetition only possible after re-enrolling for the course unit.
Additional information on mode of examination	Semester performance will be assessed based on both a written term paper and the presentation of a case study. The weighting is 50/50.

Learning materials

Groups

Restrictions

Offered in

Programme	Section	Type
Health Sciences and Technology Master	Elective Courses	W
Health Sciences and Technology Master	Module: Environment and Health	W
Food Science Master	Module Environment and Health	W
Science, Technology, and Policy Master	Life Science and Health	W
Science, Technology, and Policy Master	Resources and Environment	W
Environmental Sciences Master	Environment and Health	W
Environmental Sciences Master	Policy Engagement	W