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| Semester | spring semester 2020 |
| Course frequency | Every spring sem. |
| Lecturers | Gabriel Erni Cassola (gabriel.ernicassola@unibas.ch, Assessor) |
| Content | We will mix lectures, case studies, and self-organized work shadowing to gain knowledge about selected methods and approaches of the natural sciences. G. Erni Cassola will provide input on the scientific method in general and on specific methods, occasionally with the help of guest speakers. In addition, students will collect methodological expertise during work shadowing and literature work. The seminar will focus on methods which are relevant for sustainable development topics. |
| Learning objectives | The students - understand the difference between a scientific and a non-scientific approach to a question; - can formulate scientific hypotheses and can distinguish them from a question or idea; - and know about the difference between an observation and an experiment, induction and deduction, empiricism and rationalism, descriptive and experimental approaches. The students - understand the influence of observer, equipment, and experimental design on the outcome of an experiment; - know about sample sizes, research design, and error types; - understand the importance of positive / negative controls and standards. The students - know natural science methods that are important in the context of sustainability, such as molecular species identification, water quality parameters, behavioral assays, community assessments, assays for chemical contaminants, and others; - and know what kind of information these methods can provide and are aware of their limitations. |
| Bibliography | Optional reading: Godfrey-Smith, Peter (2003): Theory and Reality: An Introduction to the Philosophy of Science. The University of Chicago Press: Chicago and London. Material handed out during the semester/seminar. |
| Comments | MSD 2017 Mandatory seminar for all MSD students. This seminar is offered by MSD. The teaching is done by a staff member of MGU (Mensch-Gesellschaft-Umwelt), Dep. of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences. |
| Admission requirements | Exclusively for MSD students and students in preparation to the MSD. |
| Language of instruction | English |
| Use of digital media | Online course |
| Interval | Weekday | Time | Room |
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No dates available. Please contact the lecturer.
| Modules |
Modul Wahlbereich Energie und Klimawandel (Master's Studies: Sustainable Development (Start of studies before 01.08.2017)) Module: Interdisciplinary Research in Sustainability (Master's Studies: Sustainable Development) |
| Assessment format | continuous assessment |
| Assessment details | Regular attendance, active participation. Oral presentation and written report. |
| Assessment registration/deregistration | Reg.: course registration, dereg: cancel course registration |
| Repeat examination | no repeat examination |
| Scale | 1-6 0,1 |
| Repeated registration | as often as necessary |
| Responsible faculty | University of Basel |
| Offered by | Departement Umweltwissenschaften |