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327-2141-00L 6 Credits MSC D-MATL , D-PHYS , D-ITET

Materials+

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Rafael Nicolosi Libanori, Dr. Henning Galinski
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:22:21

Abstract

Materials+ is a team-based learning course focusing on sustained learning of key material concepts. This course teaches critical thinking and solving hands on material problems. The students will work in groups of five to solve a materials challenge. The eight week-long project includes a poster presentation and culminates in a materials challenge, where all groups compete against each other.

Objective

The overarching goal of this course is to provide students a risk-friendly environment, where they can learn the tools and mind-set to aim for scientific breakthroughs. The materials challenge is thought to be a stimulus rather than a goal, to aim for new solutions and creative ideas. Students enrolled in the course will acquire technical skills on materials selection, integration and engineering. Furthermore, they will develop personal and social competencies, especially in decision-making, communication, cooperation, coordination, adaptability and flexibility, creative and critical thinking, project management, problem-solving, integrity and ethics.

Content

In each term, the students will solve a materials challenge in class by applying three "state-of-the-art" material science concepts. Students will take an active role as they work with their peers in small groups to strengthen and apply their learned expert skills. The course is designed to promote student learning of key material concepts in an applied context and stimulate the developing of soft skills from inter- and intra-team social interactions.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance
The final mark for the course is the weighted average of the marks for the readiness assurance test (30%, written) and for the project work (70%, presentation and challenge).

Registration & Places

Max Places
25

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Materials+
Weekly hours: 4h in presence, 2h self-study
  • Thu 08:45-12:30 (HCI D 451)
6 h weekly

Offered In

  • Materials Science Master
    • Elective Courses (The students are free to choose individually from the entire course offer of ETH Zürich on the Master level. Please consult the study administration in case of questions.)
  • Electrical Engineering and Information Technology Master
    • Master Studies (Programme Regulations 2018)
      • Electives (Courses from the ETH course catalogue may be chosen in agreement with your tutor. As an alternative to the elective courses, students may do a second semester project or an internship in industry. Please consult your tutor.)
  • Physics Master
    • Electives
      • General Electives (Students may choose General Electives from the entire course programme of ETH Zurich - with the following restrictions: courses that belong to the first or second year of a Bachelor curriculum at ETH Zurich as well as courses from GESS "Science in Perspective" are not eligible here. The following courses are explicitly recommended to physics students by their lecturers. (Courses in this list may be assigned to the category "General Electives" directly in myStudies. For the category assignment of other eligible courses keep the choice "no category" and take contact with the Study Administration ( ) after having received the credits.))