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AH2014 Theory and Methodology of Science 7.5 credits

Administer About course

Course offerings are missing for current or upcoming semesters.
Headings with content from the Course syllabus AH2014 (Autumn 2012–) are denoted with an asterisk ( )

Content and learning outcomes

Course contents

  • Introduction to the concepts knowledge, truth and belief
  • The distinction between subjectivity, intersubjectivity and objectivity
  • Causality vs. covariation,
  • Scientific explanation, observation and measurement,
  • Issues in the methodology of the social sciences,
  • Quantitative vs. qualitative methodology,
  • The path from science to policy,
  • Hypothesis testing: verifying and falsifying hypotheses,
  • The nature of scientific models and simulations
  • Research ethics.

Intended learning outcomes

The aim of the course is to provide a deeper understanding of the methodological and underlying philosophical issues that arise in science, in particular the social sciences, and inspire to reflection on such issues within the student’s own area of study. The course introduces key concepts in the philosophy and methodology of science. This version of the course has a special focus on philosophical and methodological issues arising in the social sciences

Learning outcome:

After the course the students should have acquired basic knowledge of the foundational issues in the methodology and philosophy of science, especially as regards the social sciences.

Literature and preparations

Specific prerequisites

A completed Bachelor's degree and documented proficiency in English, corresponding to English B or equivalent (TOEFL, IELTS eg).

Recommended prerequisites

No information inserted

Equipment

No information inserted

Literature

Boumans, M.; Davies, J.B.,2010. Economic Methodology - Understanding Economics as a Science. Pelgrave Macillan.

Samt 5-10 artiklar som delas ut under kursen.

Examination and completion

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

Grading scale

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

Examination

  • TEN1 - Examination, 7.5 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

Other requirements for final grade

Active participation in seminars and exercises

Opportunity to complete the requirements via supplementary examination

No information inserted

Opportunity to raise an approved grade via renewed examination

No information inserted

Examiner

Profile picture Kristina Nyström

Ethical approach

  • All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
  • In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
  • In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.

Further information

Course room in Canvas

Registered students find further information about the implementation of the course in the course room in Canvas. A link to the course room can be found under the tab Studies in the Personal menu at the start of the course.

Offered by

ITM/Industrial Economics and Management

Main field of study

This course does not belong to any Main field of study.

Education cycle

Second cycle

Add-on studies

No information inserted

Contact

Anders Broström, anders.brostrom@indek.kth.se