Theory of Science, Methodology and Research Ethics
HP-600-1
Included in Study
PhD Programme in Humanities and Education
Prerequisites
Students must be admitted to a relevant PhD programme
Recommended prerequisites
Assessment will be based on students developing and reflecting on their own research proposal. Therefore, students must have at least a fairly developed outline of their own research proposal.
Learning outcomes
The course aims at providing students with advanced knowledge in theory of science, methodology and research ethics in humanities and education studies relevant for planning and carrying out research projects. It will develop students’ critical reflection on and insight in research ethics and make them familiar with relevant institutional frameworks and guidelines.
Course contents
The course will provide an advanced elaboration of key issues within theory of science, methodology and research ethics in the humanities and education studies. The course will address matters of relevance to the students’ doctoral projects, but also provide a broader perspective for further research projects and collaborations.
The course will consider core issues within theory of science, methodology and research ethics, e.g.:
Knowledge in the sciences
Ontology, epistemology and research paradigms
Uses of theory in interpretation
Research design and scientific reasoning
Objectivity, values, bias, and normativity
Formal and informal ethical guidelines and policies for research
Methodologies relevant for various disciplines in humanities and education studies, and their connections to theory of science and ethics.
Some topics will depend on the doctoral projects of the students.
Teaching methods
Teaching normally takes place at three workshops of two days. Teaching methods will include a combination of lectures and seminar discussions.
The language of instruction is English. Depending on the composition of the student group, teaching could be in Norwegian.
Examination requirements
Participation in workshops is obligatory. Any mandatory assignments will be announced in Canvas.
Assessment methods and criteria
Individually written essay, graded pass/fail. Specific instructions will be announced in Canvas.