Back
| Semester | fall semester 2023 |
| Course frequency | Every fall sem. |
| Lecturers | Marius Christen (marius.christen@unibas.ch) |
| Content | Inter- and transdisciplinary collaboration are essential prerequisites to scientifically analyse and effectively tackle complex real-world problems, such as sustainability challenges. However, what is meant by inter- and transdisciplinarity, and how and by which approaches interdisciplinary research is conducted? In the first (theoretical) part, the lecture introduces different forms, methods, challenges as well as requirements of interdisciplinarity (and transdisciplinarity), with a specific focus on questions of interdisciplinary research in sustainability sciences. In the second (practical) part, we discuss two established tools of interdisciplinary research in sustainability sciences: system analysis and sustainability assessment. Guest lectures will share their personal experiences with interdisciplinary collaboration in science. In the third (reflexive) part, we round up the lecture by a critical reflection upon contributions of science to the transformation towards sustainable development. The lecture requires active participation as part of small practical exercises. |
| Learning objectives | Students will: - get acquainted with the rational, forms, challenges as well as requirements of inter- and transdisciplinarity; - get to know different methods and approaches of interdisciplinary research; - be able to understand and basically apply relevant tools of interdisciplinary research in sustainability sciences, such as system analysis and sustainability assessment. |
| Bibliography | Recommended introductory reading: Bergmann, M. et al. (2012): Methods for transdisciplinary research. A primer for practice, Frankfurt a.M: Campus. |
| Comments | This core lecture is mandatory for every MSD student. The lecture is offered by the MSD. Dr. M. Christen holds a teaching assignment. |
| Admission requirements | Exclusively for MSD-students (incl. prep. semester). No other students admitted. |
| Course application | Course enrollment on MOnA should be completed by the beginning of the teaching period (withdrawal possible until Monday of teaching week five). Exclusively for MSD-students (incl. preparation semester MSD). No other students admitted. |
| Language of instruction | English |
| Use of digital media | No specific media used |
| Interval | Weekday | Time | Room |
|---|---|---|---|
| wöchentlich | Thursday | 10.15-12.00 | Rosshofgasse (Schnitz), Seminarraum S 02 |
| Comments | Exam: 21. Dec. 23: during usual lecture time. room tba. |
| Modules |
Module: Interdisciplinary Research in Sustainability (Master's Studies: Sustainable Development) |
| Assessment format | record of achievement |
| Assessment details | Compulsory attendance in presence, required readings, presentation. Details according to information of M. Christ. Final written examination: 21. December 23, during usual lecture time (90 minutes). For details regarding room see online course directory/section "dates and rooms". Repeat examination: 01. February 24, during usual lecture time (90 minutes), seminar room 02.02, Vesalianum, Vesalgasse1/2nd floor. If after a 2nd attempt the result is a fail (score lower than 4.0) again, the student is expelled from the MSD (see MSD study regulations; 14). |
| Assessment registration/deregistration | Reg.: course registration, dereg: cancel course registration |
| Repeat examination | one repetition, best attempt counts |
| Scale | 1-6 0,1 |
| Repeated registration | no repetition |
| Responsible faculty | University of Basel |
| Offered by | Departement Umweltwissenschaften |