AK2055 Theory of Science and Research Methodology for Teachers 4.0 credits
Survey of research methods in natural and social sciences. Common methods and goals in scientific activity (including discussions of hypothetico-deductive methods, formation of hypotheses, hypothesis testing, and explanations). Differences between research and other investigative activities (inquiries, consulting, etc.) The difference between science and pseudoscience.
Choose semester and course offering
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Content and learning outcomes
Course contents
Main concepts and topics in the philosophy of science: knowledge, forms of knowledge denial, explanations, causes, modes of inference, laws, theories, models, reductionism, underdetermination, theory dependence, falsification, demarcation, positivism, scientific values, scientific progress, repeatability.
Main concepts and topics in scientific methodology: observations, experiments, simulations, hypotheses and hypothesis testing, hypothesis generation, validity, reliability, blinding, randomisation, qualitative and quantitative data.
Intended learning outcomes
After completed course, the student is expected to
- be able to account for, and discuss, main concepts and topics in the philosophy of science,
- be able to account for, and discuss, main concepts and topics in scientific methodology,
- be able to discuss the strengths and weaknesses of different methods for collecting and analysing data in an experimental setting.
Course disposition
Lectures, seminars, students' own reading and writing work.
Literature and preparations
Specific prerequisites
General eligibility to master program studies is required.
Recommended prerequisites
Equipment
None.
Literature
Course literature will be assigned no later than four weeks before the course start.
Examination and completion
If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.
Grading scale
Examination
- SEM1 - Active Participation in Seminars, 1.5 credits, grading scale: P, F
- TEN1 - Written Assignment, 2.5 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.
Opportunity to complete the requirements via supplementary examination
Opportunity to raise an approved grade via renewed examination
Examiner
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 web
Further information about the course can be found on the Course web at the link below. Information on the Course web will later be moved to this site.
Course web AK2055