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Introduction to the theory of human-environment systems
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:19:30
Abstract
This course provides an overview on the theory of human- environment systems (HES). Thereby general approaches as well as different perspectives on the theory of HES are presented in detail (i.e. psychological, political, economic and cultural perspective).
Objective
The three major learning targets of the course are that the students: (i) get an in depth insight into the theory of human- environment systems (HES) from different perspectives; (ii) acquire the ability to understand regulatory mechanisms in HES and to outline analytical decision support approaches; (iii) get an idea about general thread of HES Major within the Master Program of Environmental Sciences.
Content
The course is organized in four modules that are embedded in two framing lectures. The modules are: (i) general theories of Human- Environment Systems (HES) Scholz and Lang; (ii) psychological perspective on the theory of HES Siegrist; (iii) cultural perspective on the theory of HES Seeland; (iv) economic and political perspective on the theory of HES Engel. Each module consists of three lectures and specific assignments.
Resources
Lecture Notes
handouts will be provided in the lectures
Literature
a list of relevant literature will be provided in the lecture
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DR , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Introduction to the theory of human-environment systems |
|
2 h weekly |