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Semester Classes

Foto: Miriam Prüßner

Regular Semester Classes

The International Undergraduate Study Program (IUSP) takes courses from the university's regular course catalogue. Usually, classes take place two hours per week.
Important: Each class, whether held in English or German, is being supported by tutorials (obligatory!) in English with four hours per week, especially for IUSP students. In the tutorials, students are working up the contents of the lecture, not only of the first eight weeks the IUSP participants are staying, but also the contents of the second half of the German semester. In addition, the tutors work more deeply on the topic with the students and deepen their knowledge.

The IUSP students give presentations and write essays on the topics according to the respective class and tutorial. Generally, marks are given for oral work (presentations, performance in class etc.) and written work (reports, bibliographies, homework, essays etc.).

Class Choice: We are adding classes as they come in from the professors, and will start publishing classes from December on for the Spring semester, and from July on for the Fall semester.* As soon as the list will be complete, we will notify all students, and ask for their class choice in an email. We will ask for their final decision after their arrival in Marburg. Only students with the language level B1.1 and above can enroll for classes held in German.

Note on Class Attendance
Please bear in mind that attendance is required in order to receive credit for IUSP classes. Failure to attend classes or tutorials can result in grade cuts and/or a grade not being issued to you if you do not attend classes and tutorials regularly. Absence of 15% of the class/tutorial time or more will result in failing the class. IUSP students do not have the option of simply sitting for the exam at the end of the semester without having attended classes. Health issues and other serious reasons for missing lectures are, of course, another matter. Please keep your teacher and/or the IUSP staff informed if you are unable to attend lectures.

*Please note:
Generally speaking, class descriptions are posted online later than what many colleges and universities outside of Germany are accustomed to. The reason for this lies in the differing academic calendars. The classes for the spring semester in Marburg are published in January; classes for the fall semester in Marburg are published in July. We recommend looking at classes from the previous academic year to get a feel for what classes will be offered in the corresponding semester of the current academic year. In most subject areas, similar courses are offered on a rotating basis one time each academic year. We do not offer the same classes every year/semester. Introductory-level courses, however, are generally repeated. Browsing through past catalogues can be helpful in giving you an idea of what courses may be offered and what courses may be counted towards your degree.
The descriptions in the class list are taken from our university course catalogue. 

Class List Spring 2024 

Subject Area: American Studies 

  • Prof. Dr. Carmen Birkle: "Remember the Ladies" (held in English)

    Lecture, asynchronous, online

  • Dr. Juliane Gamböck-Strätz: “Bodies that Matter” – Introduction to Body Studies (held in English)

    Seminar, Thursday 10 am-12 pm

    This course provides an introduction to concerns and debates surrounding the study of the body by examining representations of human bodies in selected pieces of U.S.-American literature.

    It is based on the assumption that human bodies are never merely a result of their genes but are constructed by a number of external social and cultural forces that are internalized into the physical, embodied being itself. By dealing with several representations of bodies – like for example gendered bodies, racialized bodies, aging bodies, sexualized bodies, etc. – we will address how U.S.-American individuals as well as society deal with, represent and understand bodies. We will also address how approaches on the body have been changing in the American context.

  • Dr. Juliane Gamböck-Strätz: 9/11 and the Age of Security (held in English)

    Seminar, Wednesday 12-2 pm

    This seminar focuses on the cultural reception of 9/11, especially as it is pronounced in literature, raising the following questions that we will explore by analyzing different texts, among them novels, media coverage, comics, poems, films, and memoirs. 

    -        What difficulties do writers/directors encounter in representing and writing about the complexity of 9/11 and its aftermath?

    -        What literary strategies inform post-9/11 literature?

    -        Which forms and genres are adopted in post-9/11 texts?

    -        How is 9/11 and its aftermath explored on the content and topical level as well as on the formal and aesthetic level? 

    -        How does the literary text give voice to a collective trauma?

Subject Area: Business Administration and Economics

  • Prof. Dr. Torsten Wulf: International Business Strategy (held in English)

    Lecture, Wednesday 12-2 pm

    Content: Link to Course Homepage

  • Dr. Sven Fischer: Environmental Economics with Reference to the MENA Region (held in English)

    Seminar, Thursday 4-6 pm

  • Prof. Dr. Elisabeth Schulte: Introduction to Institutional Economics (held in English)    

    Online, asynchronous, self-study

    Course description “Introduction to Institutional Economics”
    Institutions define “the rules of the game”. We will look at four kinds of problems that may require particular rules: cooperation problems, coordination problems, imperfect information and concentration of market power, and we will see how these problems give rise to transaction costs. The presence of transaction costs in turn gives rise to the relevance of governance structures, e.g. whether transactions are better executed within a firm or on a market. We will have a closer look at the possible governance structures in the light of the problems mentioned above. Besides the governance structures that private parties can choose, another option to deal with the above problems is state intervention, which may come along with its own specific problems, on which institutional economics offers a perspective as well. In this course, you will be exposed to the following questions: What are institutions? How do they come about? How are they embedded? How do they change? How do economic outcomes depend on the institutional framework? What kind of institutions are suitable to tackle cooperation problems, coordination problems, and problems originating from an asymmetric distribution of information or a concentration of market power? What are transaction costs, what are their origins, and how to minimize them? What are potential problems when the state intervenes?

    Learning goals
    Your course work is supposed to enable you to give answers to the above questions, and to:
    • explain the role of institutions as solutions for social dilemmas, coordination problems and to
    govern transactions,
    • assess the relevance of transaction costs for different kinds of transactions and the suitability of
    different mechanisms to reduce transaction costs in the presence of imperfect information,
    • point at institutional differences as possible explanations for differences in behavior and
    performance,
    • apply concepts and arguments from institutional economics to simple problems, and to
    • evaluate alternative institutional solutions.

    Key concepts
    Institutions, (bounded) rationality, social dilemma, trust, coordination problem, equilibrium multiplicity, transaction costs, property rights, public goods, the tragedy of the commons, externalities, asymmetric information, moral hazard, adverse selection, reputation, signaling, (incomplete) contracts, hold-up problem, asset specificity, commitment problem

    Course format
    The course can be studied completely online: The content is delivered in ILIAS learning modules for self-studying. You receive feedback on your learning progress by participating in quizzes. Possibilities for interacting with other course participants and/or the lecturer are on offer.

    Examination format
    The examination format is a portfolio. You will find detailed information on the portfolio components on the ILIAS course.

    Lecturer
    Prof. Dr. Elisabeth Schulte, elisabeth.schulte@wiwi.uni-marburg.de
    Please use your student e-mail account when you contact me via e-mail.

    Prerequisites
    Ideally, you have completed the course “Introduction to Economics” before this course. In particular, it will be taken for granted that you are familiar with concepts such as utility functions, optimization, or Pareto efficiency, and we assume that you are comfortable with taking derivatives, taking expectations of simple lotteries, and simple algebra.

    Outline of the content in the learning modules
    The learning modules contain a material mix. You will find a collection of the slides that appear in a learning module on its front page along with a barrier-reduced Word-file. If you face difficulties to access any of the media that we use to convey the content (e.g., due to a visual impairment), please let me know and I will offer a more accessible substitute.
    LM 1: Introduction
    We will look at several conceptualizations of institutions, distinguish between perspectives from different schools, and spell out the viewpoints that are particular to institutional economics. We also look at the ways in which institutions are established and possibly change.
    LM 2: Social dilemmas
    We will capture social dilemmas (public good provision, the tragedy of the commons, dealing with externalities) in a simple normal form game (“the prisoner’s dilemma”) and analyze it with gametheoretical methods. Thereafter, the perspective on the problems is broadened and institutions to deal with them are being discussed.
    LM 3: Coordination problems
    We will introduce coordination problems in strategic situations without underlying conflicts of interests, and we will discuss institutions as solutions to such problems and as obstacles to overcome inefficiencies. Broadening the perspective, we will look at the problem of coordinating economic activities.
    LM 4: Imperfect information and market power
    We will introduce imperfect information and market power as deviations from perfect markets, derive their consequences for economic outcomes, and analyze institutions to deal with these problems.
    LM 5: Transactions, transaction costs and their origins
    We will illustrate how information imperfections, a lack of property rights, an incompleteness of contracts, and other frictions give rise to transaction costs. We will introduce the concept of asset specificity and the resulting hold-up problem.
    LM 6: Governance structures
    We will look at markets, contracts and firms as possible structures to govern transactions, and their differences in dealing with cooperation and coordination problems, transaction costs and uncertainty.
    LM 7: State intervention
    We will focus on selected problems that may accompany state intervention from an institutional economics perspective. In particular, we will look at the problem of reaching collective decisions, the problem of rent-seeking and the commitment problem.

    Reading
    You will find most of the material covered in these text books:
    • Groenewegen, Spinthoven & van den Berg (2010): Institutional Economics—An Introduction.
    Palgrave MacMillan.
    • Voigt (2019): Institutional Economics—An Introduction. Cambridge University Press.

  • Prof. Dr. Bernhard Nietert: Intermediate Finance (held in English)

    Lecture, Monday 8-10 am

    Content: Link to Course Homepage

  • Prof. Dr. Sascha Mölls: Corporate Governance & Sustainability - Concepts & Cases (held in English)

    Seminar, time tbd

    Companies today are expected not only to maximize their value and provide relevant financial information about the ongoing business but are also presumed to engage in environmental and social activities as an integral part of their management process. Such activities are typically made transparent towards stakeholders through “corporate social responsibility” (CSR)-reporting using guidelines introduced by the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). Such additional reporting has not only gotten increasing attention in shareholder-oriented ‘exit’ systems of corporate governance but in particular in bank-based insider systems prevalent in continental Europe and Asia. The relationship between corporate governance-frameworks and CSR is complex and ambiguous. CSR is associated with potential benefits for the company, that, however, are long-term and uncertain. Thus, whether the costs associated with CSR outweigh its benefits crucially depends on the time horizon as well as on the effects of certain governance mechanisms (= firm characteristics) on the success of firms. In this course, we start with a thorough introduction into the fundamentals of corporate governance (as an economic interpretation of corporate law focusing on organizational and strategic features as well as financial aspects) and go on with reviewing existing empirical evidence regarding the relevance of firm-specific corporate governance attributes for the decision-making about CSR activities and reporting. Participants further apply the gained conceptual knowledge by working on case studies comparing the practice of CSR-reporting in large listed companies from different countries. Finally, the empirical base allows for a detailed discussion of insights as well as implications. 

Subject Area: English Studies 

  • Prof. Dr. Sonja Fielitz: From William Shakespeare to Simon Armitage: A 'Who is Who' of British Literature (16th to 21st Century) (held in English)     

    Lecture, Wednesday 12-2 pm, online

    Given a literary history of more than 500 years, it seems rather adventurous to narrow British writers down to a ‘Who is Who.’ Nevertheless, this (online) lecture ventures to do so in the hope of giving students a brief orientation and overview of major authors and titles of British literature throughout the centuries, and this in the genres of drama, narrative, and poetry. Writers covered will include: William Shakespeare (drama, 16th/17th centuries), Daniel Defoe (narrative, 18th century), Henry Fielding (narrative, 18th century), Jonathan Swift (narrative, 18th century), Jane Austen (narrative, 18th/19th centuries), the Bronte sisters (narrative, 19th century), William Wordsworth (poetry, 19th century), Charles Dickens (narrative, 19th century), Oscar Wilde (drama, 19th/20th century), Virginia Woolf (narrative, 20th century), Samuel Beckett (drama, 20th century), Ted Hughes (poetry, 20th century), Alan Ayckbourn (drama, 20th/21st century), Margaret Atwood (narrative, 20th / 21st centuries), and Simon Armitage (poetry, 21st century). 

  • Prof. Dr. Sonja Fielitz: From Friars to Cardinals: Negotiating Religion on the Early Modern Stage (Shakespeare and Contemporaries) (held in English)

    Seminar, Tuesday 4-6 pm

    In 1534, King Henry VIII (1491-1547) initiated the English Reformation, because his wish to have his first marriage to the Catholic Catherine of Aragon annulled resulted in disagreement with Pope Clement VII. As a consequence, the King separated the Anglican Church of England from the Roman Catholic Church and appointed himself Supreme Head of the Church of England. He had convents and monasteries dissolved, for which he was excommunicated by the Pope. Although most of Henry’s successors, that is, King Edward VI (Anglican), Queen Mary (Catholic), Queen Elizabeth I (Anglican), and King James I (Anglican) adhered to the Protestant faith, subversive adherence to the Catholic Church continued at various levels in different parts of England, and this also fostered by the Jesuit missionaries. 

    It is no wonder that major religious controversies such as these were reflected in the theatre of the time. In class, we will discuss Christopher Marlowe’s Dr. Faustus (c. 1592), William Shakespeare’s Henry VIII (1613) as well as passages from Hamlet and Measure for Measure (to be provided), John Webster’s The Duchess of Malfi (c 1614), and James Shirley’s The Cardinal (1641).

    These four plays must be read before the first session of term. There will be an introductory test on their content in the first session.

  • Prof. Dr. Sonja Fielitz: Negotiating 'Class' in British Literature (16th to 21st centuries) (held in English)

    Seminar, Wednesday 10 am-12 pm

    The social structure of the United Kingdom has historically been highly influenced by the concept of social class, which continues to affect British society still today. Before the Industrial Revolution, British society, like its European neighbours and most societies in world history, was structured strictly hierarchically within a system that involved the hereditary transmission of occupation, social status and political influence. Since the 18th century, this system has been in a constant state of revision, and new factors other than birth (for example, education or occupation) have become to play a major part in the process of creating identity in Britain. Especially since the Second World War, British society has experienced significant changes, including an expansion of higher education and home ownership, mass immigration, and a changing role for women. All of these have had a considerable impact on the social landscape. The British monarch has always remained at the top of the social class structure. 

    In class, we will deal with different texts from different centuries that reflect social changes. We will start with Shakespeare’s history play King Richard II (c 1590) and continue with Jane Austen’s novel Pride and Prejudice (1813), excerpts of novels by Charles Dickens (to be provided), George Bernard Shaw’s play Pygmalion (1913), and end with Caryl Churchill’s play Top Girls (1982).

    These four texts must be read before the first session of term. There will be an introductory test on their content in the first session.

Subject Area: German Studies 

  • Prof. Dr. Marion Schmaus: Lost sheroes – vergessene Dramatikerinnen und Librettistinnen als wikis (held in German)

    Seminar, Wednesday 2-6 pm (block seminar, starting May 22)

    Inhalte:
    Das Seminar wird – angelehnt an den Namen des ARD-Podcasts – sich auf Spurensuche nach zu ihren Lebzeiten häufig oft gespielten Dramatikerinnen und Librettistinnen machen, die aber heute in Vergessenheit geraten sind. Es gilt mit detektivischem Spürsinn, das Internet, Datenbanken, alte Bücher oder Zeitungen zu durchforsten, um deren Leben und Werk zu rekonstruieren. Als Leistungsnachweise werden wir Wikis zu den Schriftstellerinnen erarbeiten oder schon bestehende ergänzen. Das Seminar steht im Kontext eines deutsch-kanadischen Forschungsprojekts zu ‚Women and drama‘ von der Frühen Neuzeit bis zur Gegenwart. Wir werden Fragen wie Kanon und Gender diskutieren, solche nach einer zeitgemäßen Form der Literaturgeschichtsschreibung; etwas über die Machart von Datenbanken und Metadaten lernen und skills in Literatur- und Datenbankrecherche erwerben und natürlich solche im Verfassen eines Wikis.

    Sonstiges:
    Nutzung der Online-Lernplattformen ILIAS und gegeb. BigBlueButton.

    Prüfungsleistung:
    Portfolio (Wiki).

    Studienleistungen:
    Rechercheaufgaben, Lesekarten etc.

    Literatur:
    Pataky, Sophie: Lexikon deutscher Frauen der Feder: eine Zusammenstellung der seit dem Jahr 1840 erschienenen Werke weiblicher Autoren nebst Biographien der lebenden und einem Verzeichnis der Pseudonyme. Berlin 1898;
    Kord, Susanne: Ein Blick hinter die Kulissen: deutschsprachige Dramatikerinnen im 18. und 19. Jahrhundert. Stuttgart 1992;
    Kord, Susanne: Sich einen Namen machen: Anonymität und weibliche Autorschaft, 1700-1900. Stuttgart 1996, s. auch ILIAS.

  • Prof. Dr. Marion Schmaus / Prof. Dr. Michael Cysouw / Prof. Dr. Jürgen Wolf: Germanistik: Theorien, Methoden, Praktiken (held in German)

    Lecture, Wednesday 2-4 pm

    Inhalte:

    Im Studium der Germanistik kommen drei verschiedene Ansätze zur Erforschung der deutschen Sprache zusammen: Linguistik, Mediävistik und Literatur. Diese Bereiche bearbeiten nicht nur inhaltlich andere Themen, sondern sie haben auch ihre eigenen wissenschaftlichen Traditionen und Methoden.

    Ziel dieser Veranstaltung ist es, Methoden und wissenschaftliche Praktiken der drei verschiedenen Teilbereiche der Germanistik zu vergleichen und unterscheiden. Grundlegende methodische und praktische Eigenschaften der verschiedenen Bereiche werden dabei praktisch angewendet, z.B. der unterschiedliche Umgang mit Fragestellungen, Daten, Beispielen, Zitationen und Textformen.

  • Prof. Dr. Marion Schmaus: Weiß/White: Diskursivierungen von ‚Rasse‘ seit dem 17. Jahrhundert bis zur Gegenwart (held in German)

    Lecture, Wednesday 12-2 pm

    Inhalte:
    Im westlichen Kulturkreis sind wir unbewusst häufig noch gewöhnt, ,Weißsein‘ nicht als kulturell geprägte Zuschreibung, sondern als Norm, als Nicht-‚Rasse‘ wahrzunehmen. Die Vorlesung will vor dem Hintergrund von Nell Irvin Painters Studie ‚History of White People‘ die Entstehung von ‚weiß/white‘ seit dem 17. Jahrhundert als rassisch geprägter Gegenbegriff zu ‚schwarz/black‘, u.a. in nordamerikanischen juristischen Dokumenten ‚weißer‘ Kolonisatoren, rekonstruieren und die Verbindung mit ästhetischen Prägungen von Weiß diskutieren. Von vermeintlich weißen antiken Plastiken in Winkelmanns Ästhetik über Blumenbachs Überlegungen zur ‚weißen Rasse‘, über weiße Christus-Darstellungen bis zu ästhetisch vermittelten Schönheitsidealen, etwa Schneewitchens „so weiß wie Schnee“, soll das Programm handeln. Die Gegendiskurse gegen eine solche Normalisierung und Normierung des Weißen als das dem ‚Wahren, Schönen und Guten‘ sollen ebenfalls berücksichtigt werden, neben Painters ‚History‘ ist hier etwa auf Bernadine Evaristos ‚Blonde roots‘ oder auf die Ausstellung ‚Conceptions of White‘ zu verweisen.

    Sonstiges:
    Nutzung der Online-Lernplattformen ILIAS und gegeb. BigBlueButton.

    Literatur:
    Painter, Nell Irvin: The history of white people. New York 2010;
    Evaristo, Bernardine: Blonde Roots. London 2008;
    Video zur Ausstellung ‚Conceptions of White‘ der MacKenzie Art Gallery: https://youtu.be/rlkXli-Wl9E?si=gRtzMq_m7mnPczME; s. auch Ilias.

  • Prof. Dr. Fabian Wolbring: Neuere deutsche Literatur Einführung II (held in German)

    Seminar, Wednesday 6-8 pm

    Inhalte
    Im Anschluss an das Proseminar „Einführung I“ (ES I) werden die technischen und begrifflichen Grundlagen des Studiums der Neueren deutschen Literatur(wissenschaft) erarbeitet. Schwerpunkte liegen in der Erzähltext- und der Dramenanalyse sowie der Literaturtheorie. Die Aufnahme in dieses Seminar hat die erfolgreiche Teilnahme am ES I zur Voraussetzung, zu dessen Lehrinhalten es sich komplementär und darauf aufbauend verhält. 

    Organisationshinweise zu zu erbringenden Studienleistungen

    Aktive Beteiligung an der Diskussion im Seminar; Mitgestaltung einer Seminarsitzung; Anfertigung von Protokollen und/oder schriftlichen Fixierungen der Sitzungsvorbereitung; kontinuierliche Lektüre der diskutierten Primär- und Sekundärliteratur.

  • Prof. Dr. Fabian Wolbring: Medienreflexionskompetenz Fokus: Literatur als Schutzraum (held in German)

    Seminar, Thursday 10 am-12 pm

    Inhalte
    Die wissenschaftliche Beschäftigung mit Literatur (disziplinärer Fokus) steht gerne im Verdacht der Wirklichkeitsfremde, geringen Aktualität und gesellschaftlichen Randständigkeit. Diesem Vorbehalt begegnet das Seminar, indem es vorführt, wie engagierte Forschung Beiträge zu aktuellen Debatten
    und Konflikten leisten kann. Das Seminar ist eine von drei aufeinander abgestimmten Lehrveranstaltungen, die in literaturwissenschaftlicher,
    medienreflexiver und pragmalinguistischer Perspektive Literatur als Schutz- und Diskursraum der freien ästhetischen Äußerung und zugleich als ein
    ihrerseits besonders schützenswertes Objekt diskutieren. Anhand konkreter Fallbeispiele der jüngsten Gegenwart (u.a. die Debatte um Wolfgang Koeppens "Tauben im Gras", um Rammstein-Sänger Lindemann und um Gomringers Fassadengedicht) loten die Seminare die Spannung zwischen ästhetischen, moralischen und kulturellen Grenzen und der gesellschaftlichen Notwendigkeit poetischer Rede aus.

    Wir starten als drei unabhängige Seminare mit seminarübergreifenden Arbeitsgruppen. Die Ergebnisse der Seminare werden am Ende der Vorlesungszeit (26./27.06.) in einem Workshop einer breiteren Öffentlichkeit vorgestellt und im interdisziplinären Austausch mit Expert:innen aus den Rechts-, Medien-, Gesellschafts- und Sozialwissenschaften kritisch diskutiert. Organisation, Ablauf und Arbeitsformen werden zusammen mit den Leistungserwartungen in der ersten Sitzung vorgestellt und diskutiert.

    Für die Belegung gilt: Sie können, müssen aber nicht zwei oder alle drei Seminare besuchen. Für den erfolgreichen Abschluss reicht die Teilnahme an
    einer der drei Lehrveranstaltungen einschließlich der aktiven Beteiligung am Workshop.

    Das Seminar ist Teil des Lehrforschungsprofils Medienreflexionskompetenz in Marburg im Fokusthema: MRK:Fokus: Alles von der Kunstfreiheit gedeckt? –
    Mediale Gewaltakte be- und verurteilen.

    https://www.uni-marburg.de/de/fb09/neuere-deutsche-literatur/arbeitsgruppen/
    literaturdidaktik/lehr-und-forschungsprofil-medienreflexionskompetenz

  • N.N.: German Literature for German learners (German level A2) 

    Seminar, Tuesday + Thursday 9 am-12 pm

    Textbook: a variety of different German literary genres

    This course introduces important structures of the German language. The student develops communicative competences in the areas of reading, listening, speaking, and writing. The course enables the participant to engage in advanced conversations. The student becomes familiar with listening comprehension strategies and develops the ability to extract socio-cultural information from texts, accompanied by exercises concerning phonetic particularities in communicative contexts. In this seminar the student can expect a variety of different literary genres. Developing language skills: Students should be able to understand and use grammar structures and vocabulary in order to communicate in everyday situations. They should also be able to pronounce words and phrases correctly.

    1. Reading and comprehending different kinds of literature: Students should be able to understand and comprehend texts, such as short stories or articles, using vocabulary and grammar structures. They should also be able to identify main ideas and supporting details in these texts.
    2. Participating in basic conversations: Students should be able to engage in conversations on everyday topics, using appropriate language and cultural norms. They should also be able to ask and answer questions, and express their own opinions and feelings.
    3. Writing texts: Students should be able to write short texts, such as emails or short letters, using grammar structures and vocabulary. They should also be able to use appropriate language and formatting for different purposes and audiences.
    4. Understanding and interpreting cultural texts: Students should be able to understand and interpret simple cultural texts, such as short stories or short films, in the context of the German-speaking world. They should also be able to identify the cultural values and perspectives expressed in these texts.
    Overall, the goal of using German literature in a beginner German language class is to help students develop language skills and cultural understanding, and to provide a foundation for further study of the German language and culture.

  • Prof. Dr. Hania Siebenpfeiffer / Prof. Dr. Ina Dietzsch: Die Zukunft des Menschen: Trans- und posthumanistische Blicke auf uns selbst (held in German) - interdisciplinary (German Studies + European Ethnology)

    Blockseminar, Wednesday April 24, 10 am-12 pm + Thursday June 6, 10 am-6 pm + Friday, June 7, 10 am-6 pm

    Inhalte

    In den 1950er Jahren entwerfen Romane, Filme und Serien mal utopische, mal dystopische Zukunftsvisionen einer optimierten oder überwundenen Menschheit. Gleichzeitig reflektieren und kritisieren Philosoph*innen, Anthropolog*innen und Ethnolog*innen tradierte kulturelle und religiöse Vorstellungen vom Menschen als privilegierter Spezies. Durch Bioengineering, Genomchirugie, avancierte Prothetik und Artificial Intelligence hat die Frage, wer oder was ‚der Mensch‘ sei und ob seine begrenzten körperlichen und/oder mentalen Fähigkeiten akzeptiert, optimiert oder gar überwunden werden sollten, seit den 1990er Jahren eine neue Brisanz erhalten. Anhand der vier Themenfelder Geschlecht, Chimären, Materie und Intelligibilität wollen wir in unserem interdisziplinären Kompaktseminar die literarische, filmische und theoretische Auseinandersetzung erschließen und kritisch diskutieren. In einer Auftaktveranstaltung am 24.04. wird der interdisziplinäre Zugriff zusammen mit Informationen zu Organisation, Ablauf, Arbeitsformen und Leistungserwartungen vorgestellt und diskutiert. Im Juni schließen sich zwei jeweils zweitägige Kompaktphasen an, in denen wir uns intensiv mit post- und transhumanistischen Positionen und ihrem Reflex in Literatur und Film auseinandersetzen werden.

    Literatur

    Janina Loh: Trans- und Posthumanismus. Zur Einführung. 4. Aufl. Hamburg 2023 (ISBN 978-3-88506-808-2).

Subject Area: History 

  • Prof. Dr. Eckart Conze: Deutschland in Europa 1815-1871 (held in German)

    Lecture, Friday 10 am-12 pm

    Die Überblicksvorlesung beschäftigt sich mit der deutschen Geschichte im europäischen und internationalen Kontext in der Zeit zwischen dem Wiener Kongress (1814/15) und der Gründung des Deutschen Kaiserreichs (1870/71). Schwerpunkte liegen auf der Neuordnung Deutschlands in Europa nach dem Zeitalter Napoleons, auf der Entstehung des modernen Nationalismus, der Revolution von 1848 sowie dem Weg zur preußisch-deutschen Reichsgründung. Durchgehend behandelt wird die Frage, was - deutsche - Nationalgeschichte des 19. Jahrhunderts im 21.  Jahrhundert bedeutet, wie "deutsch" sie ist und welche Fragen und Perspektiven ihre Darstellung und Analyse leiten.

    Der Besuch der Vorlesung kann ggf. kombiniert werden mit einer Übung (Do, 14-16), die sich mit Quellen zum Thema der Vorlesung (Deutschland in Europa 1815-1871) befasst.

  • Prof Dr. Eckart Conze: Quellen zur deutschen Geschichte 1815-1871 (held in German)

    Exercise course (Übung), Thursday 2-4 pm

    In der Übung steht die Beschäftigung mit Quellen (unterschiedlichen Typs) zur deutschen Geschichte im internationalen Kontext im 19. Jahrhundert (1815-1871) im Mittelpunkt. Voraussetzung für die Teilnahme ist die Bereitschaft zur intensiven Auseinandersetzung mit den Quellen im Vorfeld der Sitzungen. Die Übung ist an die Vorlesung "Deutschland in Europa 1815-1871" gekoppelt, kann aber auch unabhängig von dieser Vorlesung besucht werden.

  • Dr. Heidi Hein-Kircher: Das östliche Europa vom Ersten Weltkrieg bis 1939 (held in German)

    Lecture, Thursday 8-10 am

    Der Zusammenbruch des Russländischen und Deutschen Reiches sowie der Habsburgermonarchie führte zur Entstehung von Nationalstaaten mit hohen Anteilen an nationalen Minderheiten. In Folge dessen kam es bis 1921 zu Unabhängigkeits- und Grenzziehungskonflikten wie etwa zwischen Polen und Litauen oder Polens Vordringen in die Ukraine und des Vorstoßes der Roten Armee bis nach Polen. Die neuen Staaten wurden im Inneren geprägt durch den Staatsaufbau und daraus resultierenden Krisen („defekte Demokratien“), die wiederum zur Etablierung autoritärer Regime führten.

    Im Sommersemester 2024 möchte die Vorlesung in die Geschichte des östlichen Europa vom Ersten Weltkrieg bis zum Beginn des Zweiten Weltkriegs einführen. Hierbei sollen nicht nur die wichtigsten politischen Prozesse untersucht werden, sondern auch kulturelle und sozio-ökonomische Entwicklungen in vergleichender Perspektive skizziert werden. Ziel der Vorlesung ist es, Einblicke über die Probleme und Folgen des Zerfalls des Russländischen und Deutschen Reiches sowie der Habsburgermonarchie zu vermitteln, die Probleme der Staatsbildungen ebenso herauszustellen wie die Minderheitenkonflikte. Grundlegende Literatur wird über Ilias zu den einzelnen Sitzungen und in einem Semesterapparat in der Forschungsbibliothek des Herder-Instituts (Gisonenweg 5-7) bereitgestellt.

  • Prof. Dr. Christian Kleinschmidt: „Zeit ist Geld“. Über den Zusammenhang von Zeit, Wirtschaft und Gesellschaft (held in German)

    Seminar, Thursday 10 am-12 pm

    Inhalte
    Zeit ist eine knappe Ressource und damit ein prädestiniertes Thema der Wirtschafts- und Sozialgeschichte. Wir sprechen von Arbeitszeit und Freizeit, von Zeitordnungen, Zeitkonflikten, von Zeitbudget sowie von Zeitmanagement. Zeit wird gemessen, getaktet, kontrolliert und ist insofern Gegenstand von ökonomischen, sozialen, politischen, kulturellen und gesellschaftlichen Auseinandersetzungen und Konflikten.  Das Seminar behandelt anhand von Beispielen in unterschiedlichen Kontexten der Wirtschafts-, Sozial- und Kulturgeschichte verschiedene Ebenen, Dimensionen und Entwicklungen von Zeit und Zeitvorstellungen im 19. und 20. Jahrhundert.

    Hinweise zu empfohlenen Voraussetzungen
    abgeschlossenes Grundstudium

    Literatur
    Borscheid, Peter: Das Tempo-Virus. Eine Kulturgeschichte der Beschleunigung, Frankfurt 2004; Lenz, Hans: Kleine Geschichte der Zeit, 2. Aufl., Wiesbaden 2018; Patzel-Mattern, Katja/Franz, Albrecht (Hg.): Der Faktor Zeit. Perspektiven kulturwissenschaftlicher Zeitforschung, Stuttgart 2015; Rosa, Hartmut: Beschleunigung. Die Veränderung der zeitstruktur in der Moderne, Frankfurt 2005; Aus Politik und Zeitgeschichte B31-32/2004 (https://www.bpb.de/system/files/pdf/LKRY85.pdf)

  • Prof. Dr. Christian Kleinschmidt: Reisen und Tourismus im 19. und 20. Jahrhundert (held in German)

    Seminar, Wednesday 10 am-12 pm

    Inhalte
    Reisen, Urlaub, Kur, Tourismus sind konstitutive Elemente der Freizeit- und Konsumgesellschaft und Grundbestandteil des modernen Lebensstils. Das Seminar verfolgt die langfristige Entwicklung von Reisen und Tourismus von den Anfängen im 18./19. Jh. über das Kaiserreich, die Weimarer Republik, den Nationalsozialismus und die DDR bis in der Bundesrepublik. Halbtagsexkursionen in die hessische Umgebung (z.B. Bad Nauheim, Bad Homburg) sind vorgesehen.

    Hinweise zu empfohlenen Voraussetzungen
    abgeschlossenes Grundstudium

    Literatur
    Kroff, Gottfried/Beyrer, Klaus/Hermann Bausinger (Hrsg.), Reisekultur. Von der Pilgerfahrt zum modernen Tourismus, München 1991; Eisenbach, Ulrich/Hardach, Gerd (Hg.): Reisebilder aus Hessen. Fremdenverkehr, Tourismus und Kur seit dem 18. Jahrhundert, Darmstadt 2001; Görlicher, Christoph: Urlaub vom Staat – Tourismus in der DDR, Köln 2009; Gyr, Ueli: Geschichte des Tourismus: Strukturen auf dem Weg zur Moderne, in: Europäische Geschichte online (http://ieg-ego.eu/de/threads/europa-unterwegs/tourismus/ueli-gyr-geschichte-des-tourismus?set_language=http://ieg-ego.eu/de/threads/europa-unterwegs/tourismus/ueli-gyr-geschichte-des-tourismus); Hachtmann, Rüdiger: Tourismus und Tourismusgeschichte, in: docupedia-Zeitgeschichte (https://www.docupedia.de/zg/Tourismus_und_Tourismusgeschichte); Hachtmann, Rüdiger: Tourismus-Geschichte, Göttingen 2007; Keitz, Christine: Reisen als Leitbild. Die Entstehung des modernen Massentourismus in Deutschland, München 1997; Mittag, Jürgen: Geschichte des Tourismus, Frankfurt 2022; Pagenstecher, Cord: Der bundesdeutsche Tourismus. Ansätze zu einer Visual History: Urlaubsprospekte, Reiseführer, Fotoalben 1950–1990, Hamburg 2003; Spode, Hasso: Wie die Deutschen „Reiseweltmeister“ wurden, Landeszentrale für politische Bildung Thüringen, Erfurt 2003; Wolter, Heike: „Ich harre aus im Land und geh, ihm fremd.“: die Geschichte des Tourismus in der DDR, Frankfurt 2009.

  • Prof. Dr. Christian Kleinschmidt: „Alles ist möglich“ (held in German)

    Excercise course, Tuesday 10 am-12 pm

    Für welche Themen der Wirtschafts- und Sozialgeschichte interessieren Sie sich besonders? Welche Themen halten Sie für wichtig, für mitteilenswert? Womit wollten Sie sich schon immer einmal intensiver beschäftigen? In der Übung „Alles ist möglich“ haben Sie die Gelegenheit, Ihren KommilitonInnen im Rahmen einer Präsentation Ihr Lieblingsthema vorzustellen und eine Seminarsitzung zu gestalten.

Subject Area: Informatics

  • Prof. Dr. Paul Alpar: Specialization Module Digital Transformation (held in English)

    Lecture (Tuesday 2-4 pm) + recitation class (Thursday 2-4 pm)

    Level: Specialisation module

    Content

    According to the announcement, various topics will be dealt with in depth from a practice-oriented and/or current perspective, in particular from the following areas

    Conceptual understanding, differentiation from information management, location of phenomena and developments 
    value creation structures 
    business models 
    Changes in primary activities 
    Changes in secondary activities 
    IT-induced changes in management, strategy and organization 
    Transformation Management 
    Effect of the transformation on companies and industries 
    Social implications of the digital transformation

    Qualification goals

    The students shall

    acquire further knowledge and skills in the field of digital transformation, 
    become familiar with the theory of the respective area and get to know selected applications, 
    Practice working methods of business informatics, 
    improve their oral communication skills in the exercises by practicing free speech in front of an audience and during discussion. 

    Prerequisites

    Recommended are the competencies taught in basic and probably advanced practical informatics modules.

  • Prof. Dr. Christin Seifert: Introduction to Natural Language Processing (held in English)

    Lecture (Monday 2-4 pm) + recitation class (Friday 10 am-12 pm)

    Level: Specialisation module

    Content

    An overview of the goals, challenges, and applications of NLP. 
    Web data processing, conversion of words into their basic forms (tokenization, stemming, lemmatization). 
    text representation (words, sentences, paragraphs, documents), word embeddings, word similarity 
    algorithms for text classification and methods for measuring and evaluating the performance of these algorithms 
    Use of lexical resources in NLP 
    Syntactic analysis (part-of-speech tagging, chunking, and parsing) 
    Techniques for extracting meaning from text (semantic analysis) 
    NLP applications (e.g., document similarity, sentiment analysis, 
    Named entity detection, question answering, summaries, fake news detection, plagiarism detection, 
    Abusive language detection, opinion mining...). 

    Qualification goals

    Students will

    Know the technical perspective on Natural Language Processing (NLP), the field of Artificial Intelligence that deals with the processing and understanding of human language. 
    Know methods for developing computer software that understands and processes human language. 
    know modern data-driven approaches, with an emphasis on machine learning techniques. 
    Are able to apply their knowledge in group work on real NLP projects. 
    Are able to develop their own systems that interpret written language. Applications covered vary in complexity and include, for example, Entity Recognition, Sentiment Analysis, Semantic Similarity, and Question Answering. 

    Prerequisites

    None. The competences taught in the following modules are recommended: Machine Learning and Introduction to Statistics or Elementary Probability and Statistics or Elementary Stochastics. 

  • Prof. Dr. Thorsten Papenbrock: Data Integration (held in English)

    Lecture (Monday 10 am-12 pm) + recitation class (Monday 11 am-1 pm)

    Level: Specialisation module

    Content

    Data models and query languages 
    Data extraction and preparation 
    Similarity measures for simple and complex data types 
    Metadata and dependency search 
    Schema transformation and mapping 
    Data transformation and cleaning 
    Entity search and resolution 
    Architectures of integrated information systems 
    Practical exercise of data integration 

    Qualification goals

    Students will

    know basic similarity measures for simple and complex data types (data matching), 
    know procedures for metadata extraction and for determining data dependencies (data profiling), 
    know techniques for mapping, integrating and transforming schemas and their data (Schema Alignment), 
    know algorithms for detecting and resolving duplicates and other data errors (Entity Resolution), 
    know architectures and functionalities of modern, integrated information systems (Integrated Information Systems), 
    have practical skills in dealing with heterogeneous, contaminated data and their integration, 
    are able to apply scientific working methods when independently identifying, formulating and solving problems, 
    are able to speak freely about scientific content, both in front of an audience and in a discussion. 

    Prerequisites

    None. The competences taught in the following modules are recommended: either Algorithms and Data Structures or Practical Informatics II: Data Structures and Algorithms for Pre-Service-Teachers, Database Systems. 

  • Prof. Dr. Gabriele Taentzer: Formal Methods in Software Engineering (held in English)

    Lecture (Wednesday 10 am-2 pm) + recitation class (Thursday 12-2 pm)

    Level: Specialisation module

    Content

     Formal methods are used for the formal specification and analysis of software systems and as a suitable abstraction level for the description and solution of software problems. Starting from finite automata, we consider the formal specification of simple systems and analyze them with model checking. For the specification and analysis of more realistic systems we refine the state specification by data structures. Graphs can be used flexibly to specify data structures. Their changes can be systematically defined with graph transformations. On this basis, typical software development activities, such as system design and program testing, can be formally specified and analyzed. We also consider simple program verification. Finally, we focus on a selected problem in software engineering and jointly develop a specification and analysis technique for this problem.

    Qualification goals

    Students

    are able to formalize systems, system properties, and software development activities, 
    know how to automatically analyze and verify system properties, 
    are able to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of formal methods in software engineering, 
    are able to apply scientific working methods when independently identifying, formulating and solving problems, 
    are able to speak freely about scientific content, both in front of an audience and in a discussion. 

    Prerequisites

    None. The competences taught in the following modules are recommended: Theoretical Computer Science, Logic, Software Engineering. 

  • Prof. Dr. Thorsten Thormählen: Image Synthesis (held in English)

    Lecture (Tuesday 10 am-12 pm + Thursday 10 am-12 pm) + recitation class (Thursday 12-2 pm)

    Content

    Simulation of light transport 
    Global Lighting Methods 
    Efficient programming of stream processors 
    3D modelling and compositing 
    Volume rendering 

    Qualification goals

    Students will

    know and can use methods to create computer-generated images of high visual quality; this includes, for example, topics such as modeling a dynamic virtual scene, free-form curves and surfaces, methods for global illumination, or methods for displaying volume data, 
    understand the architecture of current graphics cards and understand the graphics card as an enormously powerful stream processor with many parallel computational units that can be used for complex computations outside of computer graphics, 
    can apply parallel programming to the graphics card, 
    are able to apply scientific working methods in independently identifying, formulating and solving problems, 
    are able to speak freely about scientific content, both in front of an audience and in a discussion. 

    Prerequisites

    None. The competences taught in the following modules are recommended: Object-oriented Programming, Graphics Programming. 

  • Prof. Dr. Thorsten Thormählen: Multimedia Signal Processing (held in English)

    Lecture (Monday 8-10 am + Friday 8-10 am) + recitation class (Monday 10 am-12 pm)

    Level: Specialisation module

    Contents

    Basics of digital signal processing 
    Digitization of audio, images and video 
    Audio effects 
    Image processing 
    Compression of images 
    Audio compression 
    Video compression 

    Qualification Goals

    Students will be able to

    Create content for modern communication media, 
    have in-depth knowledge of procedures for digitally capturing, processing, storing, and transmitting multimedia data, especially auditory and visual media, 
    can design media and recognize, formulate and solve practical problems. 

  • Prof. Dr. Elmar Tischhauser: Advanced Topics in Cryptography (Crypto II) (held in English)

    Lecture (2 h) + recitation class (2 h)

    Level: Specialisation module

    Contents

    In-depth study of the essential concepts and methods of cryptography, especially encryption, authentication, design and analysis of symmetric algorithms, elliptic curves, post-quantum cryptography, cryptographic protocols. Introduction to current research topics in the field of cryptography.

    Understanding and application of the concepts presented in the lecture will be practiced hands-on during the tutorial as well as an integrated crypto lab.

    Qualification Goals

    The students

    have in-depth knowledge of the basic principles and methods of cryptography required for an evaluation of cryptographic security and its application in the field of IT security, 
    understand design and analysis principles for cryptographic methods, 
    have insight into current research issues in the field of cryptography. 

    Prerequisites

    None. The competences taught in the following modules are recommended: Introduction to Cryptography and its Applications or IT-Security. 

  • Dr. Joachim Wienbeck: Software as a Medical Device (held in English)

    Lecture (Friday 9 am-1 pm, every other week) + recitation class (Friday 1-5 pm)

    Level: Specialisation module

    Contents

    What is ''medical device software''? 
    Requirements for processes and products 
    Overview of quality management 
    How does the regulatory framework fit with software development processes? 
    Relevant standards 
    Selected topics from quality management: (usability, risk management, configuration management) 
    Approval processes 
    Audits 
    After the release: changes, errors, updates 

    Qualification Goals

    Students

    Have knowledge and skills of software development for medicine, 
    can recognize cross connections to computer science, 
    can apply ways of thinking and working in regulatory agencies to concrete issues, including technically motivated problems, 
    have an intuition for the development of software as a medical product and are able to translate this into precise terms and formal justifications, 
    are able to speak freely about scientific content, both in front of an audience and in a discussion. 

    Prerequisites

    None. The competences taught in the following module are recommended: Software Engineering. Basic knowledge of software engineering is recommended. 

  • Prof. Dr. Heinz-Peter Gumm: Computer Based Theorem Proving Systems (held in English)

    Lecture (4 h) + recitation class (2 h)

    Level: Advanced module

    Contents

    Sequential calculus for Propositional and Predicate Logic 
    Resolution Methods for Predicate Logic 
    Specifying and Proving in PVS 
    Typed Logic and Type Correctness Conditions 
    Equality, Rewrite-Systems, 
    Decision Procedures, Nelson-Oppen, Shostak Algorithm 
    Induction and Higher Order Logic 
    Synthesis of Programs and Data Types 
    Co-Datatypes 
    Intuitionistic Logic and Intuitionistic Calculi 
    Implementation of Non-Standard Logics in Jape 
    Hardware Synthesis: The Lambda System 

    Qualification Goals

    Formal specification of proof tasks, 
    Methods, calculations and algorithms for computer-aided proof, 
    Dealing with industrial strength interactive proof systems, 
    Special logics and their treatments, 
    Training scientific skills (recognition, formulation, problem solving, abstraction), 
    Training of oral communication skills in the labs by practicing free speech and discussion in front of an audience. 

    Prerequisites

    None. The competences taught in the following modules are recommended: Theoretical Computer Science, Logic. 

    Recommended Reading

    N.Shankar: Specification and Proof with PVS (http://fm.csl.sri.com/SSFT15/PVScourse.pdf) 
    M. Hofmann: Vorlesungsskript Rechnergestütztes Beweisen, 2006 
    F.v.Henke, K.Pfeifer: PVS Einführung. 2006 
    S. Owre, J. Rushby, et al: A tutorial introduction to PVS, 1996 
    W. Schreiner: The RISC ProofNavigator, Tutorial and Manual, RISC, 2008. 

  • Prof. Dr. Bernhard Seeger: Geo Databases (held in English)

    Lecture (2 h) + recitation class (2 h)

    Level: Specialisation module

    Contents

    Introduction to extensible database systems 
    Modelling of spatial data: vector data and raster data 
    Query processing in spatial databases 
    Indexing techniques for spatial databases 
    card coverage 
    Algorithms of computational geometry 
    Commercial Geo-Information Systems 
    Moving objects 

    Qualification Goals

    Students

    have knowledge of extending object-relational database systems for geo applications, 
    know principles of basic algorithms and data structures for geo-databases, 
    have knowledge of data models for geospatial data, 
    know query processing in geo-databases, 
    are able to handle geo-information systems and geo-database systems, 
    are able to apply scientific working methods when independently identifying, formulating and solving problems, 
    are able to speak freely about scientific content, both in front of an audience and in a discussion. 

    Prerequisites

    None. The competences taught in the following modules are recommended: either Algorithms and Data Structures or Practical Informatics II: Data Structures and Algorithms for Pre-Service-Teachers. 

    Recommended Reading

    P. Rigaux, M. Scholl, A. Voisard: Spatial Databases with Application to GIS, Morgan Kaufmann 
    H. Samet: The Design and Analysis of Spatial Data Structures, Addison-Wesley 
    M. Berg, M. Kreveld, M. Overmars, O. Schwarzkopf: Computational Geometry, Springer. 
    T. Brinkhoff: Geodatenbanksysteme in Theorie und Praxis, Wichmann. 

Subject Area: Mathematics

  • Prof. Dr. Volkmar Welker: Probabilistic Combinatorics (held in English)

    Lecture (Monday 2-4 pm + Friday 10 am-12 pm) + recitation class (2 h) 

    Level: Specialisation module

    Contents

    Method of positive probability,
    Method of 1st and 2nd moments, 
    Erdös-Renyi model, 
    Threshold functions, 
    Lovasz Local Lemma, 
    correlation inequalities, 
    concentration inequalities 

    Qualification Goals

    Students

    can derive basic properties of combinatorial structures using probabilistic methods, 
    can recognize combinatorial structures in different contexts and analyze them using probabilistic methods 
    have deepened mathematical working methods (development of mathematical intuition and its formal justification, abstraction, proof), 
    have improved their oral communication skills in exercises through discussion and free speech in front of an audience. 

    Prerequisites

    None. The competences taught in the following modules are recommended: either Elementary Probability and Statistics or Elementary Stochastics, Discrete Mathematics. 

  • Prof. Dr. Ilka Agricola: Partial Differential Equations (held in English)

    Lecture (Monday 8-10 am + Wednesday 8-10 am) + recitation class (2 h)

    Level: Specialisation module

    Contents

    classical partial differential equations (Laplace equation, wave equation, heat equation) 
    distributions, fundamental solutions of differential operators, Sobolev spaces 
    weak solutions, boundary value problems for partial differential equations 

    Qualification Goals

    Students will

    understand differential equations as a means of mathematical modeling and can use them, 
    can apply knowledge from functional analysis to the systematic theory of partial differential equations, 
    have deepened mathematical working methods(developing mathematical intuition and its formal justification, abstraction, proof), 
    have improved their oral communication skills in the exercises by practicing free speech in front of an audience and in discussion. 

    Prerequisites

    None. The competences taught in the following modules are recommended: either Linear Algebra I and Linear Algebra II or Basic Linear Algebra or Linear Algebra incl. Foundations of Mathematics, either Analysis I and Analysis II or Basic Real Analysis or Analysis I and Analysis II. 

    Recommended Reading

    Lawrence Evans, Partial differential equations. AMS, 1998. 
    G.B. Folland, Introduction to Partial Differential Equations, 
    Princeton University Press, 1995. 

  • Prof. Dr. Sören Rollenske: Algebraic Geometry: Modern Methods (held in English)

    Lecture (Monday 10 am-12 pm + Thursday 2-4 pm) + recitation class (2 h)

    Level: Specialisation module

    Contents

    The course provides an introduction to modern (cohomological) methods of algebraic geometry. These will be developed systematically and illustrated with key examples.

    Qualification Goals

    The students

    grasp the basic properties of affine algebraic and projective varieties, 
    understand the interplay between abstract methods and results of commutative algebra and geometric intuition. 
    have deepened mathematical working methods (development of mathematical intuition and its formal justification, abstraction, proof), 
    have improved their oral communication skills through discussion and free speech in front of an audience in the exercises. 

    Prerequisites

    None. The competences taught in the following modules are recommended: either Foundations of Mathematics and Linear Algebra I and Linear Algebra II or Basic Linear Algebra, either Analysis I and Analysis II or Basic Real Analysis, either Algebra [Bachelor Module] or Algebra [Lehramt Module], Commutative Algebra (Large Specialization Module) or Commutative Algebra (Small Specialization Module) or Algebraic Geometry: Introduction. Prior knowledge of differential geometry, number theory, or topology is helpful. 

    Recommended Reading

    Görtz, Ulrich; Wedhorn, Torsten Algebraic geometry I., Vieweg + Teubner, Wiesbaden, 2010. 
    Liu, Qing Algebraic geometry and arithmetic curves, Oxford University Press, Oxford, 2002. 
    Perrin, Daniel Algebraic geometry. An introduction., Universitext. Springer-Verlag London, 2008. 

  • Dr. Michael Schüte: Special Topics in Insurance Mathematics (held in English)

    Lecture, Tuesday 4-7 pm

    Level: Specialisation module

    Contents

    Aspects of GLM modeling and use of credibility theory for rating purposes will be considered and analyzed as part of the course.

    Qualification Goals

    Building on the Personal Insurance Mathematics and Non-Life Insurance Mathematics modules, students will have become familiar with important special topics in actuarial mathematics.

    Prerequisites

    The following modules are required: either Linear Algebra I and Linear Algebra II or Basic Linear Algebra, either Analysis I and Analysis II or Basic Real Analysis, either Elementary Probability and Statistics or Elementary Stochastics. The course builds on the basic knowledge of the modules Personenversicherungsmathematik (Personal Insurance Mathematics) and Non-Life Insurance Mathematics modules. 

    Recommended Reading

    Dobson, A. J, A. G. Barnett, "An Introduction to Generalized Linear Models", 4th Ed. 2018, CRC Press 
    Bühlmann, H., A. Gisler, " A Course in Credibility Theory and its Applications", 2005, Springer 
    Donovan, Th. M., R. M Mickey, "Bayesian Statistics for Beginners", 2019, Oxford University Press 

  • Prof. Dr. Marcus Porembski: Financial Mathematics II (held in English)

    Lecture (Friday 10 am-4 pm, every other week) + recitation class (1 h)

    Level: Specialisation module

    Contents

    Stopping Times and American Options 
    Limit considerations in the binomial model 
    Stock price and Brownian movement 
    Stochastic Analysis 
    The Black-Scholes Model 
    Risk management with options 
    Interest rate derivatives and interest rate model  

    Qualification Goals

    The students shall

    be familiar with the principles of continuous financial market modelling, 
    stock price processes, 
    be familiar with selected products and the functioning of the interest rate market, 
    be able to price basic equity and interest rate derivatives and derive corresponding risk ratios. 

    Prerequisites

    None. The competences taught in the following modules are recommended: Elementary Probability and Statistics, Financial Mathematics I. 

    Recommended Reading

    Porembski, M.: Vorlesungsskript ”Finanzmathematik” 
    Elliott, R.J., Kopp, P.E.: Mathematics of Financial Markets, Springer, 2005 
    Bingham, N.H, Kiesel, R.: Risk-Neutral Valuation. Pricing and Hedging of Financial Derivatives, Springer, 2004 
    Irle, A.: Finanzmathematik, Teubner, 2003 
    Shreve, S.E.: Stochastic Calculus for Finance II: Continuous-Time Models , Springer, 2008 

  • Prof. Dr. Hajo Holzmann: Elements of Stochastic Analysis (held in English) 

    Lecture (Monday 4-6 pm) + recitation class (2 h)

    Level: Specialisation module

    Contents

    We introduce stochastic integration and applications. Different topics cover, for instance, stochastic differential equations, jump processes and applications in financial mathematics.

    Qualification Goals

    The students

    Have gained an insight into the research field of stochastic analysis, 
    know basic structures and techniques of stochastic analysis, 
    know selected applications of stochastic analysis, 
    have deepened mathematical working methods (developing mathematical intuition and its formal justification, abstraction, proof), 
    have improved their oral communication skills in exercises by practicing free speech in front of an audience and in discussion. 

    Prerequisites

    None. The competences taught in the following modules are recommended: either Foundations of Mathematics and Linear Algebra I and Linear Algebra II or Basic Linear Algebra, either Analysis I and Analysis II or Basic Real Analysis, Probability Theory. 

    Recommended Reading

    Oksendal, B., „Stochastic Differential Equations: An Introduction with Applications“. Springer-Verlag Berlin 1998 
    Karatzas, I., Shreve, S., „Brownian Motion and Stochastic Calculus“. Springer-Verlag Berlin 1991 
    Protter, P., „Stochastic Integration and Differential Equations: A New Approach“. Springer-Verlag Berlin 2003 
    Revuz, D., Yor, M., „Continuous Martingales and Brownian Motion“. Springer 2005 

Subject Area: Media Studies

  • Prof. Dr. Angela Krewani: Food Porn: Gastronomy and Visual Culture (held in English)

    Seminar, Tuesday 8:30-10 am

    Overview:
    The course delves into the complex relationship between food, media, and culture, with a specific focus on the phenomenon known as 'food porn'. By examining the visual representation of food in various media forms, students will explore the cultural, social, and psychological implications of how we consume and share food imagery. The course is also explicitly aimed at international students and their specific cuisines. We want to intensively analyze the connection between national cuisines and the formation of specific visual cultures.

Subject Area: Peace and Conflict Studies

  • Dr. Ariadna Petri: (Post)colonialism in the Russian Sphere of Influence (held in English)

    Seminar, Monday + Thursday 2-6 pm (April 15 - May 24)

    This advanced seminar delves into the multifaceted dynamics of (post)colonialism within the expansive sphere of Russian influence, exploring the historical, cultural, and geopolitical dimensions of interactions between Russia and its neighboring regions. From the imperial era to the contemporary geopolitical landscape, this course critically examines the impact of Russian influence on various territories, addressing the complex interplay of power, identity, and resistance.

    The course starts by tracing the historical trajectory from the Tsarist Empire to the contemporary geopolitical landscape, the course critically examines the enduring legacies of Russian expansion and colonization. Emphasis is placed on the cultural hybridity and identity negotiations that have emerged from the interactions between Russian and local cultures. Through the exploration of literature, art, and language, students will analyze the multifaceted expressions of identity within the postcolonial context. Geopolitical implications are assessed, unraveling the power dynamics at play in post-Soviet spaces and their impact on international relations. The course also investigates resistance and agency, showcasing narratives of local communities that have navigated the complexities of imperial and colonial legacies. Contemporary challenges arising from Russia's ongoing influence, including border disputes and regional autonomy, are scrutinized to provide a comprehensive understanding of the (post)colonial intricacies within the Russian sphere of influence.

    By engaging with diverse primary and secondary sources, students will cultivate critical thinking skills and develop a nuanced perspective on the historical and contemporary issues surrounding (post)colonialism in the Russian sphere of influence. This seminar encourages an in-depth exploration of the intersections between power, identity, and resistance, fostering a deeper appreciation for the complexities inherent in the historical and cultural relationships between Russia and its neighboring regions.

    Key Topics Covered:

    1. **Historical Foundations:**

       - Investigate the historical roots of Russian expansion and colonization, spanning from the Tsarist Empire to the Soviet era.

       - Analyze the legacies of imperial policies and their enduring effects on the cultures and societies within the Russian sphere of influence.

    2. **Cultural Hybridity and Identity Formation:**

       - Explore the process of cultural hybridity and identity formation resulting from interactions between Russian and local cultures.

       - Examine literature, art, and language as mediums through which identities are negotiated and expressed in postcolonial contexts.

    3. **Geopolitical Implications:**

       - Assess the geopolitical consequences of Russian influence on neighboring states and regions.

       - Investigate the power dynamics at play in post-Soviet spaces and the ongoing impact on international relations.

    4. **Post-Soviet Transformations:**

       - Examine the complexities of post-Soviet transformations in territories that were once part of the Soviet Union, focusing on political, economic, and social changes.

       - Analyze case studies that highlight the diverse trajectories of these regions in the aftermath of decolonization.

    5. **Resistance and Agency:**

       - Explore narratives of resistance and agency within the Russian sphere of influence, considering the ways in which local communities have responded to imperial and colonial legacies.

       - Investigate the role of grassroots movements, activism, and cultural expressions in shaping postcolonial narratives.

    6. **Contemporary Challenges:**

       - Assess contemporary challenges and tensions arising from Russia's ongoing influence, including issues related to border disputes, minority rights, and regional autonomy.

       - Consider the implications of (post)colonial dynamics in the context of current geopolitical events.

    By engaging with a diverse range of primary and secondary sources, students will develop a nuanced understanding of the (post)colonial complexities within the Russian sphere of influence. This course encourages critical thinking, research skills, and the ability to analyze historical and contemporary issues in a global context.

  • Dr. Ariadna Petri: Multitrack diplomacy (held in English)                              

    Seminar, Tuesday 10 am-12 pm + Friday 9 am-3 pm (April 15 - May 24)

    This course is designed to provide conceptual and experiential perspectives on the variety of ways to bring about conflict resolution, mitigation, transformation and peace building on multiple levels, ranging from personal through community and organizational, to international. Such levels, often termed “tracks”, encompass official “first track” diplomacy and a spectrum of unofficial initiatives by civil society organization (CSO) and grassroots leaders and activists. Such activities are essential complements to formal conflict resolution activities, especially for complex societal conflicts involving non-state actors.

    Multi-track diplomacy has become an increasingly important tool for diplomats, government, UN and regional international organization (IO) agencies and CSO staff working in development, relief, refugee and humanitarian aid, peacekeeping and other activities in areas of conflict and political instability. Almost all violent conflicts are now at least primarily internal rather than inter-state, with at least one party a non-state community, and no mutually acceptable official structure through which disputes can be settled. In the context of mistrust and uncertainty, the sustainability not only of peacemaking efforts, but also of development, aid or humanitarian programs often depends on how communities, organizations or opinion leaders are empowered to find common ground on implementation of planned initiatives. Trust building, skills building – in areas such as nonviolent communication, prejudice reduction and integrative problem solving – along with consensus building and action planning methodologies may become essential elements for success.

    The Seminar will introduce participants to concepts, theoretical issues and techniques in the field of multi-track diplomacy, as tools for peacebuilding. This course has a strong practical focus, implemented through classroom discussions, student presentations and in-class small group projects. Students, in groups, pick a conflict from around the world, to which they will be applying the concepts discussed in class. This group work will be presented and discussed in class. These, along with regular academic discussions based on scholarly publications are the launch pad for conversations with guest speakers with abundant experience in different aspects of Multitrack activities, including ambassadors, informal mediators and CSO and grassroots leaders. The final activity of the course is staging a Multitrack diplomatic exercise.

  • Dr. Ariadna Petri: Israeli-Palestinian Critical dialogues (held in English)

    Seminar, Tuesday + Wednesday 2 - 6 pm (April 15 - May 24)

    This course offers an introduction to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, one of the most popular and protracted at global level. We will first explore the histories, geographies, economies, demographics, and identity formation of the sides, to get a sense of the major arguments, narratives and perceptions.

    Once the framework of analysis is set, we will examine the “Peace Process”, the conditions, missed opportunities, and what improvements could stimulate different kinds of resolutions to the conflict.

    A range of genres and modes of expression are incorporated into this course, besides academic works, including cinema, art, literature, and music. This course has a strong practical focus, implemented through classroom discussions, and student presentations.

  • Astrid Juckenack: Gender in terrorism and violent extremism (held in English)

    Blockseminar, Tuesday 12-4 pm

    Terrorism and violent extremism are still frequently regarded as being reserved to male actors, with gendered dynamics or the roles and effects of and on women marginalized as passive or largely irrelevant. Simultaneously, recruitment efforts targeting men may appeal to, reinforce and amplify notions of masculinity, and threats to the groups may be presented through a gendered, heteronormative framework. However, women have increasingly been noticed as being as well as taking part in these dynamics beyond victimization – whether it is through suicide terrorism, recruitment into the so-called Islamic State, or in the US-American alt right.

    Throughout this seminar, we will explore predominantly recent cases of terrorism and violent extremism, focusing in particular on gender-informed perspectives on the perpetration of terrorist attacks, recruitment, victimization, and membership of such movements and organizations.

Subject Area: Physics

  • Prof. Dr. Reinhard Noack: Computational Physics II (held in English)

    Lecture + Exercise, Monday 2-4 pm + Friday 2-4 pm

    Level: Advanced

    Content
    Basic stochastic methods: random numbers, percolation, Monte-Carlo integration, Metropolis algorithm, quantum Monte-Carlo methods, diffusion limited aggregation, self-organized criticality.

    Qualification goals
    The course offers an introduction to the most important stochastic algorithms and their applications in physics. Students learn to gauge the significance of stochastic simulation methods, the power and limitations of algorithms, and the reliability of the results, and are introduced to basic visualization techniques.

    Prerequisites
    Knowledge of classical theoretical physics, quantum mechanics, and practical computer science.

    Literature
    W.H. Press, S.A. Teukolsky, W.T. Vetterling, B.P. Flannery, Numerical Recipes, Cambridge University Press In Fortran, Pascal, Fortran 90, C++
    W. Kinzel, G. Reents, Physics by Computer, Springer, 1998.
    S.E. Koonin, Physik auf dem Computer, Oldenbourg 1990.
    J. Schnakenberg, Algorithmen in der Quantentheorie und Statistischen Physik, Verlag Zimmermann-Neufang, Ulmen, 1995.
    A. Quarteroni and F. Saleri, Introduction to Scientific Computing with MATLAB Problems and Exercises solved with MATLAB
    H. Gould, J. Tobochnik, An introduction to computer simulation methods, Addison Wesley 1996.
    T. Pang, An introduction to computational physics, Cambridge University Press 1997.

  • Prof. Dr. Kerstin Volz: Methods in Material Science 1 (held in English)

    Lecture + Seminar, Tuesday 2-4 pm + Wednesday 10 am-12 pm

    Level: Advanced

    Content
    Kristallwachstum von Volumenmaterial, Epitaxieverfahren (Flüssigphasen-, Gasphasen- und Molekularstrahlepitaxie), Thermodynamische Grundlagen der Epitaxieverfahren, SpezielleWachstumsmodi.
    Ausgangsquellen für die Gasphasenepitaxie. Verfahren zur Herstellung von Bauelementen. Herstellung von niederdimensionalen Systemen, selbstorganisiertes Wachstum, Methoden der Dotierung. Einführung in die Nanotechnologie und -strukturierung, moderne Lithographieverfahren, Halbleiterprozesstechnologie.
    Einsatzmöglichkeiten von Röntgen-, Elektronen- und Ionenstrahlen zurStruktur-, Bindungs- und Zusammensetzungsbestimmung von anorganischen Festkörpern. Kinematische und dynamische Röntgen- und Elektronenbeugungstheorie und deren Anwendung auf die Interpretation von experimentellen Beugungsmustern. Analyse von perfekten Kristallen, Kristallbaufehlern und amorphen Materialien. Weitere Beispiele für zu diskutierende Analysemethoden: Rastertunnel- und Sondenmikroskopie, ebenso wie Rutherford-Rückstreu Spektrometrie und Sekundär-Ionen-Massenspektroskopie und auch elektrische und optische Standardmessverfahren der Halbleiterphysik.

    Qualification goals
    Die Studierenden erhalten einen umfassenden Einblick in die modernen Verfahren der Herstellung ebenso wie der Charakterisierung von Halbleitermaterialien und -bauelementen wie sie auch in der Industrie eingesetzt werden.

    Prerequisites
    Knowledge in atomic physics, molecular physics and solid-state physics

    Exam and coursework
    Seminar talk or written or oral examination.
    Participation in the final examination shall be sub ject to the fulfillment of minimum requirements in the assessments of learning success and performance.

    Literature
    Epitaxy: Physical Principles and Technical Implementation, Springer Series in Materials Science, Band 62, M.A. Herman, W. Richter, H. Sitter, Springer 2004
    Handbook of Crystal Growth Vol. 3a, b, Thin Films and Epitaxy, Ed. D.T.J. Hurle, Elsevier 1994
    Materials Science and Technology Vol. 1, Structure of Solids Ed. V. Gerold, VCH Verlagsgesellschaft 1993
    Materials Science and Technology Vol. 2, Characterization of Materials, Ed. E.Lifshin, VCH Verlagsgesellschaft 1993
    Transmission Electron Microscopy, D.B. Williams, C.B. Carter Plenum Press 1996

  • Prof. Dr. Frank Bremmer: Neurons and Networks (held in English)

    Lecture + Seminar, Thursday 8-10 am + time of the seminar tbd

    Level: Advanced

    Content
    Functional organization of neurons, types of neurons, membrane models, ion channels and diffusion, Nernst/Goldman equations, recording methods for electrical signals, equivalent circuits, action potential, Hodgkin-Huxley equation, dendritic and axonal signal transmission, electrical and chemical synapses (excitatory, inhibitory, facilitatory), receptor types, second-messenger cascades, neurotransmitters, modulation of synaptic activity, Hebbian learning, LTP vs LTD, sensory receptors, models of impulse-coded neurons, neural codes.

    Qualification goals
    The students will learn about the structure and biophysical functionality of a central element of the nervous system, the neuron. First, structure and function of a neuron will be considered. This includes the discussion of intracellular structures as well as membrane models and ion channels. Nernst and Goldman equations will be derived, and the generation of action potentials (Hodgkin-Huxley) will be discussed extensively. Several types of signal transmission will be introduced, followed by consideration of synaptic signal transmission, including its modulation. Finally, processes of sensitization, habituation, learning and plasticity will be introduced and discussed with the somatosensory system as example.

    Exam and coursework
    In the accompanying seminar, the students will study current relevant publications and present them in a seminar talk.
    Participation in the final examination shall be subject to the fulfillment of minimum requirements in the assessments of learning success and performance.

    Literature
    Kandel, Schwartz & Jessell: Principles of Neural Science (Appleton & Lange)
    Purves et al.: Neuroscience (Sinauer Assoc.)
    Nicholls, Martin & Wallace: From Neuron to Brain (Sinauer Assoc.)

  • Prof. Dr. Marina Gerhard: Semiconductor Optics II (held in English)

    Lecture + Seminar, Tuesday 10 am-12 pm + Thursday 10 am-12 pm

    Level: Advanced

    Content
    Einführung in die nichtlineare Optik einschließlich nichtresonanter und resonanter Prozesse, anisotroper Materialien, Halbleiter in externen Feldern, Nichtgleichgewichtsdynamik (ultraschnelle Prozesse, Techniken der zeitaufgelösten optischen Spektroskopie), optische Phänomene in Halbleiterheterostrukturen

    Qualification goals
    In diesem Kurs werden die Studierenden mit konzeptionellen Beschreibungen von Halbleitern unter "extremen" Bedingungen vertraut gemacht. Mit praktischen Übungen und Diskussionen von Forschungsartikeln aus dem Bereich trainieren sie ihre Fähigkeit, experimentelle Daten im Hinblick auf die nichtlinearen Prozesse zu interpretieren und zu analysieren. Wir beginnen mit den höheren Ordnungen des Suszeptibilitätstensors und diskutieren daraus resultierende nichtlineare Phänomene, wie Frequenzumwandlung, den optischen Kerr-Effekt oder die Streuung von Licht mit akustischen Wellen. Andererseits werden die Studierenden mit Phänomenen vertraut gemacht, die sich aus resonanten elektronischen Anregungen mit hohen Fluenzen ergeben, wodurch sie in der Lage sind, Phänomene wie die sättigbare Absorption, den photoinduzierten Mott-Übergang oder das Laserlicht zu erklären. Neben diesen grundlegenden Prozessen lernen die Teilnehmer*innen fortgeschrittene spektroskopische Techniken und Anwendungen kennen, die hinter den photophysikalischen Phänomenen stehen, z. B. Methoden der ultraschnellen Spektroskopie, resonante Raman-Streuung, parametrische Verstärkung oder elektrooptische Modulation.

    Prerequisites
    Kenntnisse in Optik und Festkörperphysik, Grundlagen der Quantenmechanik und Halbleiterphysik

    Literature
    Klingshirn, Semiconductor Optics, Springer
    Robert W. Boyd, Nonlinear Optics, Academic press
    Georg A. Reider, Photonics – An Introduction, Springer
    Olaf Stenzel, Light-Matter Interaction, Springer
    Böhr and Pohl, Semiconductor Physics, Springer
    Mark Fox, Optical Properties of Solids, Oxford

  • Prof. Dr. Jan Christoph Goldschmidt: Solar Energy 2 (held in English)

    Lecture + Seminar, Tuesday 12-2 pm + Friday 12-2 pm

    Level: Advanced

    Dies ist der zweite Teil einer auf zwei Semestern angelegten Vorlesungsreihe zum Thema Solarenergie. In diesem Teil werden fortgeschrittene Konzepte der Solarenergienutzung, insbesondere der Photovoltaik behandelt.

    Content
    Inorganische Dünnschichtsolarzellen
    Farbstoffsolarzellen
    organische Solarzellen
    Perowskitsolarzellen
    Multi-Junction Solarzellen
    Spektrales Photonemanagement
    Thermodynamische Aspekte der Solarenergienutzung
    Thermodynamische Solarzellenkonzepte (Hot-Carrier Solarzellen, Thermophotovoltaik,..)
    Quantum- und Nano-Systeme für die Photovoltaik
    Photovoltaik Integration
    Sozio-ökonomische Aspekte der Photovoltaiknutzung (Systemkosten, Stromgestehungskosten, Lebensdauerzyklusanalysen)

    Prerequisites
    Solar Energie 1
    Vorlesung zu Elektrizität und Wärme
    Vorlesung zu Optik und Quantenphänomene, sowie Festkörperphysik von Vorteil

    Qualification goals
    Nach Besuch dieser Veranstaltung sollten Sie in der Lage sein:
    einen Überblick über die unterschiedlichen Photovoltaiktechnologien und Konzepte für zukünftige Entwicklungen zu geben, und die zu Grunde liegenden physikalischen Konzepte zu erklären.
    neue Entwicklungen innerhalb der Photovoltaik mit einer physikalischen Perspektive kritisch zu beurteilen und mögliche Herausforderungen zu identifizieren.
    einfache Simulationsmodelle zur Optimierung von Solarzellen auszuführen und die Ergebnisse interpretieren zu können.

    Literature
    Würfel, Peter, and Uli Würfel. Physics of solar cells: from basic principles to advanced concepts. John Wiley & Sons, 2009
    J. Nelson, The Physics of Solar Cells
    Martin A. Green, Third Generation Photovoltaics

  • Prof. Dr. Florian Gebhard: Superconductivity (held in English)

    Lecture + Exercise, Monday 12-2 pm + Wednesday 2-4 pm

    Level: Advanced

    Content
    Basic experiments, Ginzburg-Landau theory, electron-phonon interaction, BCS theory, from BCS to Ginzburg-Landau theory

    Qualification goals
    Superconductivity is an electronic state of matter with remarkable properties: current flows through a superconductor without dissipation, and magnetic fields are expelled from the interior of a superconducting body. Phonon-mediated superconductivity is thoroughly tested experimentally and is well-understood theoretically. In this module, the students become acquainted with the crucial experiments, their fruitful phenomenological description via the theory of Landau and Ginzburg, as well as through the microscopic theory of Bardeen, Cooper, and Schrieffer. The description of superconductivity incorporates the application of the principles of solid-state physics, of advanced quantum mechanics, and of statistical physics in order to describe a fascinating macroscopic quantum phenomenon.

    Prerequisites
    working knowledge of quantum mechanics, electrodynamics

    Literature
    J.R. Schrieffer, Theory of Superconductivity,(4th revised printing, Addison Wesley, New York, 1988)
    W. Buckel und R. Kleiner, Superconductivity. Fundamentals and Applications, (Wiley-VCH, Weinheim, 2004)
    M. Tinkham, Introduction to superconductivity, (2nd ed., McGraw-Hill, New York, 1996)
    R.D. Parks (editor), Superconductivity (2 B¨ande), (Marcel Dekker, New York, 1969).

  • Dr. Lukas Wagner: Sustainability of Materials and Technologies (held in English)

    Lecture + Seminar, Tuesday 4-6 pm + Thursday 4-6 pm

    Level: Advanced

    Content

    In dieser Vorlesung wird untersucht, was der Begriff "Nachhaltigkeit" im Zusammenhang mit Materialien und Technologien bedeuten kann, wie sich dies auf die Forschung und Technologieentwicklung auswirken kann und welche Methoden zur Bewertung und Quantifizierung verschiedener Aspekte der Nachhaltigkeit existieren.

    Die folgenden Themen werden behandelt:

    Wie kann Nachhaltigkeit definiert werden und wie verhält sie sich zu Materialien und Technologien?
    Gewinnung und Kritikalität von Rohstoffen
    Ökologische und soziale Aspekte
    Herstellung von synthetischen Materialien
    Die Verwendung von Materialien in Technologien
    Die Macht der Definition von Systemgrenzen
    Energie-Ressourcen-Nexus
    Bewertung des Lebenszyklus von Technologien
    Bewertung der Versorgungskritikalität von Technologien
    Recycling
    Entwicklung nachhaltigerer Technologien
    Kreislaufwirtschaft und Dissipation
    Nachhaltigkeit in der Forschung und an der Universität

    Qualification goals

    Nach der Teilnahme an diesem Kurs sollten Sie in der Lage sein:

    Definitionen von Nachhaltigkeit zu beschreiben
    die Rolle von Materialien und Technologien für die Nachhaltigkeit im Anthropozän zu beschreiben
    Aspekte der nachhaltigen Materialproduktion zu bewerten und zu quantifizieren
    die Auswirkungen des Materialeinsatzes in Technologien zu beschreiben
    Nachhaltigkeitsaspekte von Technologien zu beschreiben und zu bewerten
    Identifizierung von Problemen und Skizzierung und Entwicklung von Lösungen für verschiedene Aspekte der Nachhaltigkeit

  • Prof. Dr. Enrique Castro Camus: Quantum Theory of Functional Materials (held in English)

    Lecture + Exercise, Wednesday 12-2 pm + Friday 10 am-12 pm

    Level: Advanced

    Content
    A systematic foundation for quantum physics is formulated to understand quantum phenomena. Students will become familiar with elementary quantum phenomena in functional materials and develop a connection between quantum theory and measurements. Students are introduced to modern methods for calculating particle characteristics in functional materials. Students will also gain understanding of the quantum design of such materials.

  • Prof. Dr. Enrique Castro Camus: Selected Topics in Functional Materials 2 (held in English)

    Lecture + Seminar, Thursday 12-2 pm + Friday 2-4 pm

    Level: Advanced

    Content
    In this module selected topics from the field of design, growth and characterization of functional materials are covered. A variety of presenters with backgrounds in chemical synthesis, nanofabrication, growth and processing, spectroscopy, quantum optics and semiconductor technology will provide insight into the latest research related to the use of new functional materials for modern and future applications.

    Qualification goals
    Students will gain a broad overview of current issues in research to train their understanding of important studies in the area of "functional materials."

Subject Area: Political Science

  • Victoria Palchikova: The Politisation of Gender in Modern Democracies (held in English)

    Seminar, Thursday 4-6 pm

    This course aims to provide students with an in-depth understanding of gender issues in politics, including necessary theories and current developments. The first part of the course will focus on theoretical concepts necessary for discussing gender and its influence on politics. The second part of the course will address current issues related to gender in European politics, including antigenderism, the populist use of gender, and the instrumentalization of gender for the aims of right-wing actors.
    The course will be structured around reading assignments. Students will be expected to read 1-3 texts for each seminar and participate in class discussions and analytical exercises. The course will focus on teaching students how to apply gender optics in their thinking, as well as familiarising them with the main theoretical concepts and current political issues in the field.

Subject Area: Psychology

  • Prof. Dr. Martin Pinquart: Psychological Development Across Cultures - Migration and Human Development (held in English)

    Seminar, Friday 10 am-12 pm

    Goals and contents:

    The seminar applies main topics in the field of developmental psychology to young people with migration background, focusing on the situation of Germany and other countries. 

    In Germany, about 20% of the citizens have a migration background, meaning that they are foreigners, were born outside of Germany, or have at least one parent who has been born outside Germany. The percentage is higher in children and adolescents than in older age groups. In the first part of the seminar, we will discuss whether and how the psychological development of children with and without migration background differs, for example with regard to success in school, language development, social integration, and problem behavior. Factors will be identified that explain the observed differences. In the second part of the seminar, we will discuss interventions aimed at promoting a positive development of children and adolescents with migration background (e.g., in kindergarten, schools, families, or in the whole society). Amongst others, we will discuss whether mainstream programs for young people in general are as successful in children or adolescents with migration background and how specific interventions could be developed that focus on the risk factors and resources of children with migration background.    

    References:

    Garcia Coll, C. (2012). The impact of immigration on children’s development. Basel: Karger. 

Subject Area: Religious Studies

  • Anna Matter: Religion und Digitalität in Krise(n) (held in German)

    Seminar, Wednesday 10 am-12 pm

    Im Rahmen des Seminars soll sich dem Zusammenhang von Religion, Digitalität und Krisensituationen aus verschiedenen Perspektiven genähert werden. So werden beispielsweise die Chancen und Herausforderungen sowie die daraus erwachsenen Strategien zum Umgang mit steigender Digitalisierung im Alltag für religiöse Gemeinschaften betrachtet. Es werden dabei Fragen nachgehen, wie beispielsweise digital religiöse Authentizität und Autorität hergestellt wird? Wie nutzen marginalisierte religiöse Akteur*innen digitale Medien um Mitsprache an religiösen Diskursen zu erhalten? Oder wie kann ein „koscherer“ Umgang mit digitalen Medien im ultraorthodoxen Judentum aussehen? 

    Auf anderer Ebene wird digital religion als Faktor in verschiedenen Krisen analysiert. Hierzu werden insbesondere aktuelle Forschungen zur Corona-Pandemie besprochen werden. Wie nutzten verschiedene Religionsgemeinschaften digitale Medien während der Lockdown-Phasen und welche Folgen haben sich daraus für bspw. Praktiken und Lehre ergeben? Wie verbreiten sich Verschwörungserzählungen wie QAnon innerhalb und außerhalb religiöser Gemeinschaften während der Pandemie über das Internet? Inwieweit kann Religion eine soziale wie individuelle Strategie und Ressource im Umgang mit Krisen sein und wie werden hierbei digitale Medien eingesetzt?

    Die Auswahl der zu analysierten Themen wird gemeinsam im Seminar getroffen. Die Seminarlektüre ist hauptsächlich auf Englisch. 

Class Lists from Previous Semesters

Fall 2023 (PDF)

Spring 2023 (PDF)

Fall 2022 (PDF)

Spring 2022 (PDF)

Fall 2021 (PDF)

Fall 2020 (PDF)

Spring 2020 (PDF)

Fall 2019 (PDF)

Spring 2019 (PDF)

German Conversation Classes

The main goal of our Conversation Classes is to improve students' ability to communicate and interact in German. The classes focus on teaching students conversational techniques and strategies, improving students’ listening abilities, and strengthening students’ grasp of German grammar and vocabulary. The conversation classes will have the same language levels as the intensive German language classes. Attendance is mandatory, absence of 15% of the class time or more will result in failing the class.