MEST4312 Research Theory and Method 1 Course description

This course provides an overview of relevant philosophy of science perspectives in the aesthetic field as well as different scientific methods. Particular emphasis is placed on elucidating research methods of relevance to the distinctive nature of the aesthetic field and research in this field. This is, in turn, put into a philosophy of science perspective. The course will present basic concepts and methodology perspectives that are key to assessing and carrying out research and development work in the aesthetic field.

No requirements over and above the admission requirements.

After completing the course, the student is expected to have achieved the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and competence:

Knowledge

The student

• has thorough knowledge of the field's scientific theories and methods and the distinctive nature of the art subjects as a research area
• is capable of analysing and reflecting on academic questions with a basis in research method perspectives and scientific traditions relating to the academic field’s history, characteristics and place in society
• has in-depth knowledge of different forms of knowledge acquisition and source criticism in scientific publishing.

Skills

The student is capable of

• analysing and using philosophy of science and research methods of relevance to the aesthetic field in an independent manner
• remaining critical to different perspectives in the fields of philosophy of science and research methods, and applying this knowledge to structure and formulate academic lines of reasoning
• remaining critical to different information sources as the basis for the research process
• assessing different ethical perspectives relating to the research process

Competence

The student

• is capable of working independently in his/her own field and masters the field's forms of expression
• is capable of communicating with various target groups about professional issues and angles of discussion in the aesthetic fields

Undervisningen vil veksle mellom forelesninger av faglærere og gjesteforelesere. Studentene deltar aktivt i undervisningen og i gruppearbeid. Masterstudiet er basert på individuelle studier med deltagelse i grupper, forelesninger og seminar. Det legges vekt på både teoretisk og praktisk arbeid som studieform.

Teaching methods vary between lectures given by both lecturers and guest lecturers. Students must actively participate in teaching and group work. The master’s programme is based on individual studies with participation in groups, lectures and seminars. Emphasis is placed on both theoretical and practical work as forms of study.

The following coursework is compulsory and must be approved before the student can take the exam:

• Minimum 80% attendance at compulsory teaching activities and seminars

Assessment

Individual written home exam in research theory and method over two weeks.

Scope: 3,000-4,500 words.

The exam grade can be appealed.

All aids are permitted, as long as the rules for source referencing are complied With.

Pass/fail.

Two internal examiners. External examiners are used regularly.