SP9250 Action Research and Practice Research Course description

The course gives an introduction to the historical background and development of action research and practice research (including participatory action research, PAR, and participatory practice research, PPR). Research traditions, theories and methodological issues across a variety of disciplines within social and human sciences and professions are examined. 

The course covers theories of science suited for positioning the epistemological and ontological grounding of action and practice research. Important questions include the following: What are the characteristics of action research and practice research? Which view of knowledge build the foundation for these research approaches? What possibilities for developing knowledge exist within different traditions in action research and practice research? What is the potential for carrying out innovative research?

The course includes knowledge on how to apply these research approaches in designing and developing the student’s own research projects. How to design an action or practice research project that is manageable within the resources of a PhD project is given special attention. Ethical challenges are highlighted and critically reflected on, such as power relations between researchers and other actors, anonymity and confidentiality as well as conflicts in the collaboration.

Main Subjects:

• Action Research
• Practice Research
• Participatory Action Research
• Epistemological and methodological issues

The courses Physiology and Pharmacology I and II elucidate the effect pharmaceuticals have on the body and how they are used in different therapeutic fields. Key topics in Physiology and Pharmacology I are basic pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics, the peripheral nervous system, the endocrine system, the musculoskeletal system, the digestive system and immunology. The course focuses on regulating the function of these organ systems and the pathophysiology of selected illnesses and pharmaceuticals used to treat them. Immunology is an important topic in the course, and emphasis is placed on understanding the mechanism of action of biological pharmaceuticals.

Listed below are the subjects covered by the course, with credits specified:

• Physiology 5 credits
• Pharmacology 5 credits
• Immunology 5 credits

Passed the first year of the programme.

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

Knowledge

The student

• has knowledge of general pharmacology, pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics
• has knowledge of the composition, structure and function of the periphery nervous system, the endocrine system, the immune system, musculoskeletal system and digestive system
• is capable of explaining how the function of the abovementioned organ systems can be regulated
• is familiar with selected illnesses in terms of etiology, pathophysiology, symptomatology and risk factors
• is familiar with the treatment principles for the selected illnesses
• is capable of explaining the connection between physiology, pathophysiology and the effects of pharmaceuticals on selected illnesses
• is capable of explaining the cellular mechanisms of action, pharmacological effects and probable side effects of relevant groups of pharmaceuticals
• is capable of giving an account of the activation mechanisms, function and regulation of the immune system
• is familiar with the conditions for immunological memory and vaccination

Skills

The student is capable of

• applying knowledge of the mechanism of action of selected pharmaceuticals and their effects and side-effects in the assessment of pharmaceutical treatment
• discussing and communicating issues in the field in relation to pharmaceutical treatment of selected illnesses
• working individually and in groups using a problem-based approach to relevant subject matter

General competence

The student

• demonstrates an awareness of the use of pharmaceuticals for selected illnesses
• is capable of familiarising himself/herself with the mechanisms of action of new pharmaceuticals and the treatment principles of selected illnesses

The following required coursework must be approved before the student can take the exam:

• a minimum attendance requirement of 80% in supervised group work with pertaining seminars (PBL) and laboratory course

Exam content: The learning outcomes

Exam form: Supervised individual written exam, 6 hours.

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Grade scale A-F

Admission Requirements: The course is offered only to fellows who are admitted to PhD programs or equivalent (such as førstelektorprogram).

• External applicants, please  use Søknadsweb (fsweb.no). (Search for  PhD courses, Faculty of Social Sciences)
• Internal candidates, please  use Studentweb (fsweb.no) and sign up yourself, or contact the PhD administration.

Required attachments:

• Confirmation of admission to a PhD program, or part of a førstelektorprogram  (external applicants).
• The participants must submit a presentation of their projects, their experiences from action research and practice research. The presentation will form the basis for discussion where active participation will be expected, both in presenting one’s ideas and providing feedback on the ideas of others. The presentations must be written (1-2 pages) and submitted to the coordinators by April 30, 2023. The presentations will be accessible for other students on Canvas

One external and one internal examiner will assess at least 30% of the papers. Two internal examiners will assess the remaining papers. The external examiner's assessment shall benefit all the students.