F1N5114 Theory of Science and Research Methodology, Social Science 7.5 credits

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

• Scientific knowledge
• Hypothesis testing
• Observations and measurements
• Experiments
• Models
• Statistical reasoning
• Causes and explanations
• Philosophy of social science
• Philosophy of economics
• Risk and risk assessment
• Reasearch ethics

After having completed the course, the student should, with regards to the theory and methodology of science, both orally as well as in writing, be able to:

• Identify definitions and descriptions of concepts, theories and problem areas, as well as identify the correct application of these concepts and theories.
• Account for concepts, theories and general problem areas, as well as apply concepts and theories to specific cases.
• Critically discuss the definitions and applications of concepts and theories as they applies to specific cases of scientific research.
• identify and critically discuss fundamental theoretical and methodological problems within the PhD-student's area of research,
• identify and critically discuss specific theoretical and methodological problems within the PhD-student's own research,
• identify and critically discuss specific theoretical and methodological problems within others' research.

Entry requirements for PhD studies.

To be announced at course start. All material is available through course platform. The following literature has been used previously:

• Sven Ove Hansson "The Art of Doing Science" (compendium).
• Till Grüne-Yanoff “Experiments, models and methodology” (compendium).
• Video lectures.
• Articles distributed during the course.

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

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.

A student may request a home exam, with the maximum grade of E, if two requirements are fulfilled: (1) This is the last remaining exam left before graduation. (2) It is not possible for the student to attend the written exam because the student is, at the point of the request, residing outside of Sweden and will be residing outside of Sweden for at least twelve months following the request. The examiner approves or denies these requests.

- Active participation in seminars (1.5 credits)

- Passed written exam (3 credits)

- Passed written essay (3 credits)

Till Grüne-Yanoff

• 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.

Please note! This course has been cancelled and replaced with FAK3138 Theory of Science and Research Methodology, Social Science 7,5 credit