On successful completion of the course, the student will:
Knowledge
have in-depth knowledge of various scientific-theoretical and philosophical perspectives
have in-depth knowledge of various epistemological perspectives
have in-depth knowledge of how the scientific theoretical point of view affects the research process
Skills
be able to discuss and relate critically to different scientific-theoretical perspectives
be able to critically evaluate scientific articles
be able to apply scientific argumentation in the choice of research design
General competence
have an advanced understanding of how theory and empiricism interact
be able to analyze research ethical and methodological issues
be able to convey and independently master different forms of scientific theory and philosophy
Course contents
The course focuses on different scientific theories and the different designs / methods that follow from these. Furthermore, it focuses on topics that relate to the connection between ethics, design and practical understanding of knowledge acquisition.
Key topics:
Different science-theories and philosophical traditions
Epistemology
View of humanity and research ethics
Theory and empiricism, mutual influence
Generalization
Objective and subjective knowledge
Evidence - possibilities and limitations
Communication of knowledge - advantages and disadvantages
Scientific dishonesty
Critical reading of research articles
Teaching methods
Lectures
Groupwork
Self-studies
Estimated student workload in this course is 405 hours.
Examination requirements
Passed course requirements. Please see the course brochure for details.
Assessment methods and criteria
A graded 5-day individual home examination.
Evaluation
The person responsible for the course, in consultation with the student representative, decides the method of evaluation and whether the courses will have a midterm- or end of term evaluation, see also the Quality System, section 4.1. Information about evaluation method for the course will be posted on Canvas.