AK2030 Theory and Methodology of Science (Natural and Technological Science) 4.5 credits

• Educational level

  Second cycle

• Academic level (A-D)

  D

• Subject area

• Grade scale

  A, B, C, D, E, FX, F

• Course homepage

• Course page on KTH Social

Learning outcomes

After completed course the student should be able to

• account for and apply fundamental concepts from the theory and methodology of science on problem areas within the theory and methodology of science,
• account for fundamental theories concerning the epistemological and explanatory status of science, 
• identify and critically discuss, both orally and in writing, fundamental theoretical and methodological issues in the technical, natural and social sciences, 
• identify and critically discuss, both orally and in writing, specific metodological problems in a study, the design of an exeriment, the use of a particular method of measurement, or the use of a particular model, 
• analyze the relationship between the basic results of a study and the conclusions that legitimately can be drawn on the basis of the results.

Course main content

The following is an incomplete list of topics covered in the course.

• Scientific knowledge
• Hypothesis testing
• Causes and correlations
• Observations and measurements
• Experiments
• Models
• Law and explanations
• The development of science
• Research ethics
• Scientific papers and peer review

Disposition

Lectures and seminars.

Eligibility

120 ECTS credits university studies. Proficiency in English corresponding to English B in Swedish gymnasium.

Literature

• Sven Ove Hansson "The art of being scientific"
• Information on additional literature will be given on the course webpage no later than four weeks before the course start.

Examination

• SEM1 - Seminars, 1.5 credits, grade scale: P, F
• TENA - Examination, 3.0 credits, grade scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F

Requirements for final grade

Fulfilled seminar requirements and written exam.

Offered by

ABE/Philosophy

Contact

kurser.tamos@abe.kth.se

Examiner

John Cantwell <cantwell@kth.se>

Version

Course plan valid from: Spring 11.
Examination information valid from: Autumn 08.