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865-0047-00L 2 Credits WBZ , NDS D-GESS
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Strategies for Behaviour Change

Lecturers & Examiners: Shruti Patel
Only for MAS/CAS in Development and Cooperation students, as well as specialists with at least 24 months of practical experience in international cooperation. ETH doctoral students working on topics related to poverty reduction in low- and middle income countries may also be admitted. Registration only through the NADEL administration office.
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:15:55

Abstract

In this course students deepen their knowledge of how individuals behave and make decisions. Students learn about the latest insights from behavioural science and explore how they can be applied to tackle global development and sustainability challenges. Students also gain an understanding of the limitations and challenges associated with behaviourally-informed policies.

Objective

- Students gain a broad understanding of the factors that influence people’s economic and non-economic decisions - Students appreciate the ethical objections to behavioural interventions and can understand their limitations - Students become more aware of their own biases and are able to recognise biases in others - Students can identify opportunities for designing more behaviourally-informed policies in the realms of development and sustainability, and are able to assess their effectiveness

Content

• Being human - why we do the things we do? Biases, preferences, and heuristics • Theories and models of behaviour change • Designing behavior change interventions and measuring effectiveness • Ethical concerns and limitations of behaviour change approaches • The future of behaviour change - implications for development cooperation

General Information

Language
English
Levels
WBZ , NDS

Examination

Type
ungraded semester performance

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Strategies for Behaviour Change
Blockkurs: 11.12. – 15.12.2023 Ort: CLD A1
No time listed 40 h semesterly

Offered In

  • MAS in Development and Cooperation (The compulsory courses of NADEL are accessible only for students of the MAS in Development and Cooperation and for qualified employees with at least two years experience in development cooperation and a Master's level or equivalent level of education as recognized by ETH. PhD students doing empirical research in development cooperation may be admitted "sur Dossier". The elective courses are open to master students of the ETH with registration/ waiting list. MAS students do have priority.)
  • CAS in Development and Cooperation (Take place each spring semester and every second autumn semester (odd years).)