Environmental problem solving 1

“Environmental Problem Solving: knowledge, methods and competencies” helps develop the knowledge, methods and competencies needed to advance sustainability and the ecological transition as unprecedented change is happening at the global, regional and local levels. Students are trained to use qualitative, quantitative and scenario methods in a systems-theory approach. “What can change?” “How can change happen?” “Who can change?” are the pivotal questions of the course. Two of the six key sectors of the ecological transition (Transport and Industry) are explored from a theoretical and practical perspective, including investigation of a set of case studies and a roll-play at the end of each sequence. Specific attention is given to biophysical and subsurface resources. This course works hand in hand with the project-based course “Initiatives” and the various interventions of our colleagues from the geology department. 

Course objectives and competencies developed:

• Understand the complexity and interconnectedness of major environmental issues: systems competence
• Demonstrate understanding of selected environmental problems from a transdisciplinary perspective: transdisciplinary competence
• Learn to use the methods and processes of environmental problem solving: critical, strategic and normative competence
• Learn to use qualitative and quantitative data-collection methods: integrative data collection and analysis
• Develop strong oral and written communication skills and abilities: interpersonal and communication competence