Programplaner og emneplaner - Student
SIW4301 Philosophy of Social Science Course description
- Course name in Norwegian
- Philosophy of Social Science
- Study programme
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Master Programme in Applied Social Sciences - Study Option International Social Welfare and Health PolicyMaster Programme in Applied Social SciencesMaster's Programme in Applied Social Sciences – Study Option Nordic Social Policy and Global Sustainable Development
- Weight
- 10.0 ECTS
- Year of study
- 2021/2022
- Curriculum
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SPRING 2022
- Schedule
- Programme description
- Course history
-
Introduction
This course is designed to inform and enrich the material learned in the research methods courses. It combines a descriptive and a normative approach to reflection on social science.
Among topics covered, are the role of values in research, objectivity, realism, social constructivism, social ontology, feminist philosophy of science, evidence-based policy, and causality.
Required preliminary courses
None.
Learning outcomes
After completing the course, the student should have the following overall learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:
Knowledge
The student has
- thorough knowledge of main social science philosophy topics relevant to social welfare and health policy studies
- knowledge of theories and concepts enabling systematic reflection on social science
Skills
The student can
- analyse, discuss and evaluate social science from the viewpoint of philosophy of science
General competence
The student has
- thorough understanding of the relation between actual research and theories about research
- a well developed understanding of the foundations of research results and design
Teaching and learning methods
The teaching consists of lectures (including electronic lectures), seminars and tutorials related to the coursework requirements. Students are expected to play an active role.
Course requirements
Students must submit four essays on the philosophy of social science (500 Words each).
The four essays are separately awarded a Pass or Fail. A Pass in all of them qualifies for sitting the school exam.
Students whose coursework requirement is not approved may resubmit once. If not approved after two submissions the student will be disqualified from sitting the final school examination.
Assessment
The assessment consists of a six hour school exam.
Permitted exam materials and equipment
Students may use a spelling dictionary, as well as a bilingual dictionary during the written school exam.
Grading scale
The student submits a thesis that investigates a research question using one or several relevant research methodologies.
Examiners
All other courses within the master's degree must be passed before submitting the master's thesis.
Course contact person
A student who has completed his or her qualification has the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:
Knowledge
The student has advanced knowledge of
- research designs relevant to the investigation of a particular research question
- a particular area of social or health policy of relevance to their degree
- relevant research literature on the subject matter of the master-s thesis
- theories and methodological approaches relevant for the chosen subject matter
- basic conceptual tools needed to understand an critically examine relevant social or health research
Skills
The student can
- conduct a review of the state of scientific knowledge related to a research question in social and health policy
- conduct a limited, independent research project under supervision
- choose a methodology that is relevant for a specific health and social welfare research question
- apply research methods in a reflective manner
- critically evaluate relevant quantitative or qualitative methods used in reports, books or articles investigating a particular social welfare or health policy problem
General Competence
The student can
- read and critically assess academic literature
- present specialised knowledge and research findings in the form of academic writing
- apply advanced skills and knowledge in the field of social welfare and health policy
- evaluate issues related to the academic, professional and research ethics