737309 Methods of social ecology: Social metabolism


Type
Lecture and exercise
Semester hours
2
Lecturer (assistant)
Organisation
Offered in
Sommersemester 2023
Languages of instruction
Deutsch

Content

Material flow analysis (MFA) is an important method for the investigation of societies metabolism. The seminar introduces the theoretical basics and practical application of MFA. A material flow account for a national economy for the years 1970 to 2018 is planned and implemented. The empirical work will be conducted in small groups and includes the compilation of data from statistical sources, the processing of data for MFA purposes, and the analysis and presentation of results. In addition to the biophysical data students will also compile economic and political history of the countries of observation and will investigate interlinkages between socioeconomic and biophysical development. Results will further be discussed in comparison to international studies.

Previous knowledge expected



Objective (expected results of study and acquired competences)

With successful completion of the course, students will gain the following skills:
•Planning and implementation of a micro research project.
•Basics in material flow accounting and its implementation in socioecological research.
•Dealing with international statistical databases and statistical data.
•Presentation of research results.
You can find more details like the schedule or information about exams on the course-page in BOKUonline.