Polymers and the environment Field of study: Environmental Protection
Programme code: W2-S1OS19.2023

Module name: Polymers and the environment
Module code: 1OS_23_48
Programme code: W2-S1OS19.2023
Semester:
  • winter semester 2026/2027
  • winter semester 2025/2026
Language of instruction: depending on the choice
Form of verification: course work
ECTS credits: 2
Purpose and description of the content of education:
Natural and synthetic polymers and plastics are used in a variety of applications. Of particular relevance are non-biodegradable macromolecules that accumulate in the environment posing a real threat to the functioning of ecosystems. The course will also discuss biological and synthetic substitutes for many stable, environmentally harmful compounds that will soon become the basis of the modern circular economy. Laboratory experiments will help to assess the influence of various physical, chemical and biological factors which, acting synergistically or antagonistically, contribute to the degradation of plastics in the environment.
List of modules that must be completed before starting this module (if necessary): not applicable
Learning outcome of the module Codes of the learning outcomes of the programme to which the learning outcome of the module is related [level of competence: scale 1-5]
Defines the origin and importance of biopolymers and conventional plastics. Lists and describes abiotic and biological factors affecting polymers in different environments. Distinguishes labels on plastics and directs them to the appropriate stream according to circular economy principles. Discusses the benefits and risks of using plastics in different industries. [01]
 1OS_W01 [3/5] 1OS_W02 [3/5] 1OS_W04 [3/5] 1OS_W05 [3/5] 1OS_W11 [3/5] 1OS_U07 [3/5] 1OS_U08 [4/5] 1OS_U09 [3/5] 1OS_U12 [3/5]
Constructs and proposes experiments. Analyses the results of laboratory experiments and draws correct conclusions. [02]
 1OS_W05 [3/5] 1OS_U01 [3/5] 1OS_U02 [5/5] 1OS_U04 [4/5] 1OS_U07 [3/5] 1OS_U08 [3/5] 1OS_U10 [3/5] 1OS_U12 [3/5]
Cooperates with the group and contributes to its effective work. Follows the safety procedures in the specialised laboratory. [03]
 1OS_K01 [3/5] 1OS_K02 [3/5] 1OS_K04 [3/5] 1OS_K05 [3/5]
Form of teaching Number of hours Methods of conducting classes Assessment of the learning outcomes Learning outcomes
lecture [01] 6 Problem-based lecture [b01] 
Lecture-discussion [b02] 
Activating method – flipped classroom [b09] 
Self-education [f01] 
Individual work with a text [f02]  		course work 01
laboratory classes [02] 24 Activating method – educational games [b03] 
Activating method – peer learning [b08] 
Activating method – flipped classroom [b09] 
Working with a computer [d01] 
Laboratory exercise / experiment [e01] 
Project scheduling [e04] 
Self-education [f01] 
Individual work with a text [f02] 
Conceptual work [f03]  		course work 01 02 03
The student's work, apart from participation in classes, includes in particular:
Name Category Description
Search for materials and review activities necessary for class participation [a01] Preparation for classes
reviewing literature, documentation, tools and materials as well as the specifics of the syllabus and the range of activities indicated in it as required for full participation in classes
Literature reading / analysis of source materials [a02] Preparation for classes
reading the literature indicated in the syllabus; reviewing, organizing, analyzing and selecting source materials to be used in class
Consulting materials complementary to those indicated in the syllabus [a04] Preparation for classes
agreeing on materials complementary to those indicated in the syllabus, supporting the implementation of tasks resulting from or necessary for class participation
Production/preparation of tools, materials or documentation necessary for class participation [a05] Preparation for classes
developing, preparing and assessing the usefulness of tools and materials (e.g. aids, scenarios, research tools, equipment, etc.) to be employed in class or as an aid when preparing for classes
Getting acquainted with the syllabus content [b01] Consulting the curriculum and the organization of classes
reading through the syllabus and getting acquainted with its content
Verification / adjustment / discussion of syllabus provisions [b02] Consulting the curriculum and the organization of classes
consulting the content of the syllabus, possibly in the presence of the year tutor or members of the class group, and, if necessary, reassessing the provisions concerning special conditions for class participation, e.g., space and time requirements, technical and other requirements, including conditions for participation in classes outside the walls of the university, classes organized in blocks, organized online, etc.
Determining the stages of task implementation contributing to the verification of learning outcomes [c01] Preparation for verification of learning outcomes
devising a task implementation strategy embracing the division of content, the range of activities, implementation time and/or the method(s) of obtaining the necessary materials and tools, etc.
Studying the literature used in and the materials produced in class [c02] Preparation for verification of learning outcomes
exploring the studied content, inquiring, considering, assimilating, interpreting it, or organizing knowledge obtained from the literature, documentation, instructions, scenarios, etc., used in class as well as from the notes or other materials/artifacts made in class
Implementation of an individual or group assignment necessary for course/phase/examination completion [c03] Preparation for verification of learning outcomes
a set of activities aimed at performing an assigned task, to be executed out of class, as an obligatory phase/element of the verification of the learning outcomes assigned to the course
Analysis of the corrective feedback provided by the academic teacher on the results of the verification of learning outcomes [d01] Consulting the results of the verification of learning outcomes
reading through the academic teacher’s comments, assessments and opinions on the implementation of the task aimed at checking the level of the achieved learning outcomes
Development of a corrective action plan as well as supplementary/corrective tasks [d02] Consulting the results of the verification of learning outcomes
reviewing and selecting tasks and activities enabling the elimination of errors indicated by the academic teacher, their verification or correction resulting in completing the task with at least the minimum passing grade
Undertaking, on one’s own initiative and individually, activities aimed at expanding the scope or depth of the teaching content, also beyond the walls of the University [e01] Activities complementary to the classes
a set of activities undertaken independently and on the student's own initiative, aimed at expanding the depth and scope of knowledge and skills, their revision and repetition, retention or verification, also activities carried outside the university, e.g., in a culture promoting or educational institution, a laboratory, in the open air, etc.; also self-education
Attachments
Module description (PDF)
Information concerning module syllabuses might be changed during studies.
Syllabuses (USOSweb)
Semester Module Language of instruction
(no information given)