The aim of the course is to provide a deeper understanding of the methodological and underlying philosophical issues that arise in science, and inspire to reflection on such issues within the student’s own area of study. After having taken the course the student should have acquired basic knowledge of the foundational issues in the methodology and philosophy of science, specially as regards the natural and technological sciences.
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Please note: all information from the Course syllabus is available on this page in an accessible format.
Course syllabus AK2036 (Spring 2024–)The following is an incomplete list of topics covered in the course.
Scientific knowledge
Definitions
Hypothesis testing
Observations and measurements
Experiments
Models
Statistical reasoning
Causes and explanations
Engineering design
Qualitative methods
Research ethics
Risk and risk assessment
The course consists of lectures, assignments, seminars, a project part, and a exam.
After having completed the course, the student should, with regards to the theory and methodology of science be able to:
· Identify definitions and descriptions of concepts, theories and problem areas, as well as identify the correct applications of these concept and theories.
· Account for concepts, theories and general problems areas, as well as apply concepts and theories to specific cases.
· Critically discuss the definitions and applications of concepts and theories as they apply to specific cases of scientific research.
These learning outcomes are examined via seminars, and in a written exam.
After having completed the course, the student should also be able to (applies to students that do not take the master’s programme medical engineering (TMLEM):
· Summarise and present research reports or scientific articles in a way that makes them accessible to a non-expert audience.
· Account for standard structural and qualitative criteria for scientific writing and apply these to research reports or scientific articles.
· Identify and critically discuss specific theoretical and methodological problems in research reports or scientific articles.
These learning outcomes are examined in writing via a project part.
Students from the master’s programme medical engineering (TMLEM) should be able to:
· Account for and apply the most common theories and methods of applied ethics and account for their relevance for medical technology.
· Carry out independent moral reflections concerning practical problems in the ethics of medical technology.
These learning outcomes are examined orally and in writing via a project part.
General requirements for master’s programmes. Proficiency in English corresponding to English B / English 6 in Swedish gymnasium.
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.
If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.
A student can be examined in SEM1 with written assignments that replace attendance at seminars, provided that an agreement is in place for the student to take the course remotely.
Fullfilled seminar requirements, project requirements and written exam.
