Tackling Environmental Problems I

Abstract

In the case study, we analyse a different real-world topic from the field of sustainable development each year, identify key challenges, and develop solutions together with stakeholders.

Objective

Students are able: - to carry out research on a given complex sustainability topic and present the results in a structured report which (a) shows the state of knowledge and (b) the need for knowledge and action (UPL I). - to integrate knowledge of diverse perspectives in a qualitative systems model, to identify problems and to suggest possible solutions from a specific stakeholder's perspective (UPL II). - name the different roles within a group, reflect and explain the role(s) they are suited for, self-organise in groups, identify problems of collaboration and constructively address the problems (UPL I and II).

Content

The first semester is about gathering existing knowledge on a current case study topic in the field of sustainability, including its foundations and challenges. Working in groups, students research a specific sub-topic that involves both literature and data research as well as a stakeholder analysis. Results are documented in a scientific report and presented at an internal conference (as a presentation, role play, or poster). In parallel, students reflect on their group collaboration in a learning journal. Introductory sessions on literature research, academic writing, stakeholder analysis, and group processes, as well as regular progress meetings with the lecturers, support the working process. During the semester break, a synthesis week takes place. In this week, the results of the various sub-analyses are integrated using methods of design and systems thinking. Specific problems are identified and initial ideas for solutions are developed. In the second semester, students build on the sub-analyses from UPL I to develop concrete sustainability projects. Working in groups, they independently apply methods such as system modelling and design thinking, which they were introduced to during the synthesis week. In close exchange with stakeholders, they identify problems, develop a system model and concrete solution ideas, test their measures, and continuously refine them based on feedback and new insights. At the end of the course, students present their results at the public “Market of Measures” to lecturers and interested stakeholders, and document them in a factsheet and report. Students may implement their measures in an optional third semester. Students work largely independently in groups, but are supported by tutors at key stages. Special introductions are provided on: - the case study topic (by external experts), - research, academic writing, and reference management (by experts from the ETH Library), - group roles and collaboration, - developing a qualitative system model (with SystemQ), - developing solutions (Design Thinking, Checkland’s Soft Systems Methodology).

Resources