PhD-Course in Scientific Theory and Method (REL 600) autumn 2009 (15 ECTS study credits)

Monday 28th – Wednesday 30th of September
Monday 19th – Thursday 22nd of October
Monday 14th – Wednesday 16th of December

The first session focuses on thesis formulation, design and strategy, including the scientific premises behind a research project. The session provides an introductory presentation of the theological, ethical, historical and social scientific approaches to a topic.

The second session presents the principles behind qualitative and quantitative methods. The session presents the guiding principles behind the gathering and analysis of data. It is presumed that participants have knowledge of concrete research techniques; otherwise this must be supplied in their PhD-work. The session relates qualitative and quantitative research designs too theoretical and research ethical positions.

The third session presents the synthesis and conclusions of the project. This implies viewing the project in the perspective of the history of science, connecting empirical material and theory, as well as combining different methods. It also implies evaluating the project’s validity and generalisations and exploring the reach of the conclusions made.

The three sessions form a totality comprising the entire span of a research project. It is presupposed that those admitted to the course, follow the entire course, since this is necessary to fulfil the requirements in the work plan. Individual lectures – not the group sessions – are open to those interested.

Lecturers
Pål Repstad is Professor of Sociology of Religion at the University of Agder. He coordinates the course. Jan-Olav Henriksen is Professor of Systematic Theology at the Norwegian School of Theology and Professor II at the University of Agder. Professor Paul Leer-Salvesen is Professor of Systematic Theology with particular emphasis on ethics at the University of Agder. Ole Riis is Professor of Sociology of Religion at the University of Agder. LeRon Schults is Professor of Systematic Theology at the University of Agder. These five are in charge of the major part of the lectures. Other academics will make shorter contributions.

Closing date for applications 26th of May 2009!

For supplementary information with reading list, click here.

Timeplan for Doktorgradskurs i Vitenskapsteori og metode (REL 600) høsten 2009 (15stp)

In the ECTS catalogue one may find more information regarding learning outcome, course content, work specification, exam etc. Press here.

The PhD programme

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