Search result: Catalogue data in Autumn Semester 2020

Number	Title	Type	ECTS	Hours	Lecturers
Environmental Sciences Bachelor
Basic Courses I
First Year Examinations
529-2001-02L	Chemistry I	O	4 credits	2V + 2U	J. Cvengros, J. E. E. Buschmann, P. Funck, S. Hug, E. C. Meister, R. Verel
Abstract	General Chemistry I: Chemical bond and molecular structure, chemical thermodynamics, chemical equilibrium.
Learning 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 Amount of substance and mass. Composition of chemical compounds. Reaction equation. Ideal gas law. 2. Atoms Elementary particles and atoms. Electron configuration of the elements. Periodic system. 3. Chemical bonding and its representation. Spatial arrangement of atoms in molecules. Molecular orbitals. 4. Basics of chemical thermodynamics System and surroundings. Description of state and change of state of chemical systems. 5. First law of thermodynamics Internal energy. Heat and Work. Enthalpy and reaction enthalpy. 6. Second law of thermodynamics Entropy. Change of entropy in chemical systems and universe. Reaction entropy. 7. Gibbs energy and chemical potential. Combination of laws of thermodynamics. Gibbs energy and chemical reactions. Activities of gases, condensed substances and species in solution. Equilibrium constant. 8. Chemical equilibrium Law of mass action. Reaction quotient and equilibrium constant. Phase transition equilibrium. 9. Acids and bases Properties of acids and bases. Dissociation of acids and bases. pH and the calculation of pH-values in acid-base systems. Acid-base diagrams. Buffers. Polyprotic acids and bases. 10. Dissolution and precipitation. Heterogeneous equilibrium. Dissolution and solubility product. Carbon dioxide-carbonic acid-carbonate equilibrium.
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: Theodore L. Brown, H. Eugene LeMay, Bruce E. Bursten, CHEMIE. 10. Auflage, Pearson Studium, 2011. (deutsch) Catherine Housecroft, Edwin Constable, CHEMISTRY: AN INTRODUCTION TO ORGANIC, INORGANIC AND PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY, 3. Auflage, Prentice Hall, 2005.(englisch)
401-0251-00L	Mathematics I	O	6 credits	4V + 2U	L. Halbeisen
Abstract	This course covers mathematical concepts and techniques necessary to model, solve and discuss scientific problems - notably through ordinary differential equations.
Learning 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 18-20, Tuesdays 18-20, Wednesdays 18-20, in Room HG E 41.
701-0007-00L	Tackling Environmental Problems I Only for Environmental Sciences BSc.	O	5 credits	4G	C. E. Pohl, M. Mader, B. B. Pearce
Abstract	Each year in the case study we analyse a different topic from the field of sustainable development and develop solutions to it.
Learning objective	Students are able: - carry out research on a given topic and present the results in a structured report which (a) shows the state of knowledge and (b) the need for knowledge and action. - to integrate knowledge of diverse perspectives in a qualitative systems model, to identify problems and to suggest possible solutions from a specific stakeholder's perspective. - 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 case topic, its principles and challenges. 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. The results are written in a report and presented at an internal conference. 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 and develop solutions. In the second semester, students work independently and in exchange with stakeholders on previously identified problems. They develop a sustainability project with concrete measures that they could implement voluntarily in the third semester. The course concludes with the presentation of the student projects on the "Market of Measures". 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 (by external experts), - 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 (SystemQ), - Developing solutions (design thinking, Checklands' soft systems methodology, sustainability assessment).
Lecture notes	Tutors will compile the case study dossier on the basis of the student reports.
Literature	Methodological documentation will be made available on Moodle during the case study together with the relevant background literature.
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.
Learning 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. (2017) Biology - A Global Approach. 11th 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.
Learning 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	S. Bonhoeffer, N. Dubois, C. Schär
Abstract	The lecture provides a science-based exploration of environmental aspects from three research fields: earth, climate, and health sciences.
Learning objective	The students are able to explain important properties of environmental aspects in the areas of earth, climate and health sciences, 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	A. Patt, H. Bugmann, N. Gruber
Abstract	The lecture provides a science-based exploration of three important environmental systems: Inland waters, forest, and of food systems.
Learning 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, managing data with lists and tables and with relational databases, introduction to programming.
Learning 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.
Content	1. Modeling and simulations 2. Data management with lists and tables 3. Data management with a relational database 4. Introduction to macro programming 5. Introduction to programming with Python
Lecture notes	All materials for the lecture are available at www.evim.ethz.ch
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
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.
Learning 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.
Prerequisites / Notice	Safety concept: https://chab.ethz.ch/studium/bachelor1.html
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.
Learning 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.
701-0026-00L	Excursions For students in the third semester only. This course will be offered in Spring Semester 2021 for students who will be in there second semester then. This course takes place according to a special programme. For registration please see "Requirements/ Notice"	O	1 credit	2P	M. A. M. Niederhuber
Abstract	Excursions are an ideal framework for combining theoretical concepts of the environmental study program with the real world. An intensive discussion of environmental science and political questions takes place on three excursion days. The students learn about the specifics and challenges of a region and deepen their knowledge in exchange with experts.
Learning objective	Students are able to - describe concrete environmental science / environmental policy issues of a region and deepen their knowledge in collaboration with the respective experts. - present different perspectives of a spatial question, and discuss and analyze different points of view. - explain the interrelations between the different subjects of their environmental studies included in the excursions. - describe future fields of work and activities of environmental scientists using concrete examples.
Content	Es werden voraussichtlich sieben1-tägige Exkursionen angeboten, welche die verschiedenen Fachrichtungen des D-USYS abdecken. Eine ausführliche inhaltliche und organisatorische Beschreibung der einzelnen Exkursionen befindet sich auf der dazugehörigen Moodle-Lernplattform. Ziel ist, dass jeder Studierende des 3. Semesters UMNW im HS einen Exkursionstag belegen kann. Ein zweiter Exkursionstag wird im FS 2021 angeboten.
Lecture notes	Die Exkursionsbeschreibungen finden sich auf der Moodle-Plattform.
Literature	siehe Moodle-Lernplattform
Prerequisites / Notice	Die Anmeldung zu den Exkursionen erfolgt gemäss separater Ausschreibung.

Repetition Fist Year Environmental Sciences BSc
Number	Title	Type	ECTS	Hours	Lecturers
900-9023-00L	Repetition Fist Year Environmental Sciences BSc		0 credits		not available
Abstract
Learning objective

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. Vaterlaus
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.
Learning 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): www.halliday.de
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.
Learning 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 will be illustrated with some real data examples. The lecture will be held in German.
Learning objective	Capacity to learn from data; good practice when dealing with data and recognizing possible fraud in statistics; basic knowledge 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 Binomialtest, t-Test, Vorzeichentest, F-Test, Wilcoxon-Test), Vertrauensintervalle, Prognoseintervalle, Korrelation, einfache und multiple lineare Regression.
Lecture notes	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	R. Knutti, I. Medhaug, L. Brunner, S. Schemm, H. Wernli
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.
Learning 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	https://iac.ethz.ch/edu/courses/bachelor/vorbereitung/systemanalyse.html
Lecture notes	Overhead slides will be made available through the course website.
Literature	Imboden, D.S. and S. Pfenninger (2013) Introduction to Systems Analysis: Mathematically Modeling Natural Systems. Berlin Heidelberg: Springer Verlag. http://link.springer.com/book/10.1007%2F978-3-642-30639-6
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.
Learning 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.
Learning objective	Understanding of soils as integral parts of ecosystems, development and distribution of soils as a function of environmental factors, and processes leading to soil degradation.
Content	Definition of the pedosphere, soil functions, rocks as parent materials, minerals and weathering, soil organisms, soil organic matter, soil formation, principles of soil classification, global soil regions, physical soil properties and functions, chemical soil properties and functions, soil fertility, land use and soil degradation.
Lecture notes	Polybook
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.

Additional Compulsory Courses
Number	Title	Type	ECTS	Hours	Lecturers
701-0033-00L	Laboratory Course in Physics for Students of Environmental Sciences This lecture.is for students from 3rd Semester BSc 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 the measured data and how to interpret the final results.
Learning objective	This laboratory course aims to provide basic knowledge of - the setup of experiments, - various measurement techniques, - the use of various measurement instruments, - the correct performance of experiments, - the analysis of the accuracy of the measurements, - and the interpretations of the measured quantities. The course should also deepen the knowledge of experimental physics.
Content	The students select 5 out of 18 experiments which they like to conduct. For each of these experiments the students will analyze the data they measured, estimate in written reports the error of these measurements and compare their results with the physical theory.
Lecture notes	Manuals for the experiments are provided online on the Moodle pages of the course.
Prerequisites / Notice	Special course format in fall 2020: The course in will consist of two parts: Part 1: Home experiments Part 2: Preparatory course covering the material of physics course in spring.

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.
Learning 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	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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