AL1504 Sustainable Development for Computer Science and Engineering 7.5 credits

The course is divided into three modules: a lecture and seminar module that is examined through a larger written assignment/hemtenta (INL1, 3 credits), a smaller written assignment where the students should work with problem-solving assignments integrated with the seminars (INL2, 1.5 credits) and a project work (PRO1, 3 credits). The lecture and seminar module and the small written assignment (3+1.5 credits) are integrated with the project which is presented at the end of the course, so that the acquired knowledge can be applied in the project. 

Computer- and information technology is a strong growth factor in society that contributes to both solutions and problems for sustainable development. This course aims to give the student basic knowledge of how computer and information science may promote sustainable development, from individual components to systems.

The course will also highlight which social, environmental and ethical problems are associated with computer- and information-technology. You will gain knowledge of, and tools to work with sustainable development in the life cycle of computer- and information-technology applications, with special focus on the early phases of demand specification and development (design). i.e. the phase in which desired functions are translated to a concrete product, system or service. In the course, you will also get the opportunity to apply your knowledge of sustainable development in the form of a project that is carried out in teams of 3-5 students. The course will also train you in systematic reflection on the values, underpinning the concept of sustainable development, in particular ethical and justice aspects related to the distribution of resources across and between generations.

1. explain and problematize (discuss criticise, explain relationships) the concept of sustainable development, mainly connected to environmental problems, social aspects and ethics.

2. identify national and international goals for sustainable development and explain in what way they are relevant for computer- and information-technology applications.

3. account for connections technical systems, how they influence one another and what the limitations are

4. explain and discuss the possibilities and limitations of computer and information science for sustainable development, from individual components to systems

5. analyse consequences for sustainable development in life cycle perspective of computer and information technological of applications, as well as suggest design of systems on the basis of those consequences

• Knowledge in: Organisation, operation strategies, project management, sustainable work, group dynamics, team, motivation theories, self-leadership. Corresponding to course ME1010
• Knowledge in: Systematic principles for design of correct and robust software, life cycle models, project organisation and planning, project risks, software requirements capture and analysis, colaboration in large projects. Corresponding to course DD1369
• Does not apply for students following the current transiton rules from OPEN to CDATE. 

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

• INL1 - Home exam, 3.0 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F
• INL2 - Seminar Assignment, 1.5 credits, grading scale: P, F
• PRO1 - Project assignment, 3.0 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

Anna Björklund

• All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
• In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
• In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.