MLEST4200 Research Methods and Theory of Science Course description

Emnet gir oversikt over vitenskapsteori og forskningsmetoder som er relevant for det praktiskestetiske feltet og for fagdidaktisk forskning og utviklingsarbeid. Vitenskapsteori skal gi innsikt i ulike tradisjoner og paradigmer, herunder også praksisbasert og praksisledet forskning. Emnet presenterer en bredde av forskningsmetoder og vitenskapelige posisjoner. Forskningsetikk inngår i emnet. Emnet skal gi grunnlag for arbeid med masteroppgaven.

The exam is in two parts:

Part 1) Individual written semester assignment: approx. 2500 words. Counts 50 % of the final grade.

Part 2) Practical group exam based on key issues of art, play and learning. Each candidate is given an individual grade. Counts 50 % of the final grade.

New/postponed exam

In case of failed exam, the student can submit an improved assignment, one time.

The practical group exam may be substituted by an individual assignment.

Regulations for new or postponed examinations are available in Regulations relating to studies and examinations at Oslo Metropolitan University. Students must register for a new or postponed examination.

Examination support material is permitted.

Letter grades ranging from A to F are used, with A being the highest grade and E the poorest pass grade, and F being a fail grade.

Students will be assessed on their

• skills of independent inquiry and originality
• practical exploration and communication of academic research knowledge
• presentation of in-depth knowledge and critical reflection
• use of national and international sources

To be assessed by an internal and an external examiner.

In Nordic early childhood research, art and play comprise an essential foundation. This course provides an in-depth exploration of art, play and learning in early childhood settings, aimed at developing critical problematizing and reflection both in practice and in theory. The course addresses key issues in current research in view of their implications for practice and future research.

In view of the international scope of the course, particular emphasis is placed on comparative approaches.

Students will investigate and interrogate:

• theory of the arts, play and culture
• understandings of child culture/children's culture in relation to everyday life, play, the curriculum, the arts and modern media
• understandings of interaction with children in early childhood education and care settings
• notions of children¿s agency and participation
• discourses of cultural diversity and inclusion
• the use of digital tools for play and learning

the relationship between children¿s creativity and opportunities for free play, exploration and imaginative play

Gradert skala A-F.

To interne sensorer. Ekstern sensor brukes jevnlig.

MEST4320 - Prosjekt i praksis.