FAK3024 Introduction to Theory of Science and Research Methodology, for Graduate Students in Technology and Natural Sciences 4.5 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
• Qualitative methods
• Engineering design
• Risk and risk assessment
• Research 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.

Entry requirements for PhD studies.

All material is available through course platform. The following literature has been used previously:

• Till Grüne-Yanoff ”Justified Method Choice – Methodology for Scientists and Engineers” (compendium).
• Articles distributed during the course.

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

• SEM1 - Seminars, 1.5 credits, grading scale: P, F
• TENA - Written exam, 3.0 credits, grading scale: P, 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.

A student may request a home exam, if 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.

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.

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.

The former modul DEL1 can be replaced by the new module SEM1.

The former modul TEN1 can be replaced by the new module TENA.

To apply for this course you need to have a kth.se account and to...

1) have the course in your eISP

2) have a Ladok admin at your department/school admit you to the course (there is no limit on number of students for the course)

3) fill out the billing information in this form https://www.kth.se/form/application-form 

4) Before the start of a course you have to register via the web. You find the web registration function via (https://www.student.ladok.se) when the registration period opens

Schedule can be found by searching for course code on www.kth.se/schema