Course syllabus - Energy systems in cities and industry - project

Objectives

The course aims to deepen students’ understanding of the nature of science, theory development, research methodology, and ethics within engineering. Students will develop the ability to critically analyse and evaluate scientific reasoning, relate theory to empirical evidence, and reflect on the ethical and societal implications of technology and scientific practice.

Furthermore, the course aims to strengthen students’ capacity to apply scientific and methodological perspectives in practical engineering contexts through project-based learning. Emphasis is placed on developing skills in teamwork, and professional communication, as well as the ability to manage complexity and uncertainty in innovative and sustainable for future energy solutions. The work prepares the student for becoming more independent for their degree project.

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, the student shall be able to:

1. Critically explain and compare central paradigms in the philosophy of science and their relevance to engineering research.
2. Synthesize theoretical perspectives and methodological tools in designing a small-scale research plan or analytical framework.
3. Evaluate and justify methodological choices in scientific inquiry, including ethical and epistemological considerations.
4. Plan and execute a project that integrates one or more current and innovative concepts in energy engineering.
5. Apply advanced engineering techniques or tools to solve real-world building challenges.
6. Evaluate the accuracy of the obtained results and demonstrate the ability to critically reflect on how the choice of method, assumptions, uncertainties, and limitations affect the outcome.
7. Communicate scientific results effectively and professionally, both in written and orally.

Course content

The course is divided into two modules.
Module 1 (2,5 credits) covers philosophy of science, research methodology, and ethics in engineering sciences. It includes quantitative and qualitative approaches, the relationship between theory and empirical data, validity and reliability, research design, and argument analysis, as well as the role of science in society and sustainable development. The module develops students’ ability to analyse and apply scientific reasoning within the field of energy engineering.

Module 2 (5 credits) is project-based and centred on practical application of scientific and technical methods. Students use the knowledge from Module 1 to plan, execute, and evaluate a project related to energy system related challenges for cities and/or industries. The content includes project planning, methodology selection, communication, and ethical considerations in projects. The module emphasises both theoretical foundations of project management and their application to real or simulated engineering cases. Students work in groups to develop and analyse technical change, innovative and sustainable solutions for the energy system domain with different aspects.

Specific requirements

180 credits within an engineering program, such as Energy Engineering, Building and Construction, Environmental Engineering, or Industrial Economy Engineering, including credits in thermodynamics, heat transfer/thermal engineering and fluid dynamics, or equivalent.

In addition, 15 credits at the advanced level are required, of which at least 10 credits should be in Energy Engineering or a related field. In addition Swedish course 3 or Swedish level 3 and English course 6 or English level 2 are required. For courses given entirely in English exemption is made from the requirement in Swedish course 3 or Swedish level 3.

Examination

INL1, Assignment, 1,5 credits, grades Excellent (A), Very good (B), Good (C), Satisfactory (D), Sufficient (E), Insufficient, complementary work possible (Fx), Insufficient (F). Learning outcome: 1-3.

PRO1, Project Report, 4,5 credits, grades Excellent (A), Very good (B), Good (C), Satisfactory (D), Sufficient (E), Insufficient, complementary work possible (Fx), Insufficient (F). Learning outcome: 1-7.

SEM1, Seminar, 1,5 credits, grade: Grades Excellent (A), Very good (B), Good (C), Satisfactory (D), Sufficient (E), Insufficient, complementary work possible (Fx), Insufficient (F). Learning outcome: 3-7.

A student who has a certificate from MDU regarding disability study support, can request adaptions for the examination. It is the examiner who takes decisions on any adaptions, based on the certificate and other conditions.

Grade

AF-skala

Interim Regulations and Other Regulations

Overlap with ERA305, 7,5 hp and ERA319, 7,5 hp.