SYKK2000B Theory of Science and Research Methods Course description

The course builds on SYKP/SYKK1060 Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) in Health Care. This course teaches students how to work in a scientific manner. They should be able to read research articles and gain insight into methodical strengths and weaknesses of said articles. Qualitative and quantitative methods, or a combination of these are part of the course. Students will study the research process and basic scientific methods through practical exercises. The course contributes to understanding how scientific methods lay the basis for research results.

All answers are assessed by two examiners. An external examiner is used regularly, at a minimum of every third completion of the course. When selecting answers for external evaluation, a minimum of 10 percent of the answers shall be included, with no fewer than 5 answers. The external examiner’s assessment of the selected answers shall benefit all students.

This course is about the effect pharmaceuticals have on the body and how pharmaceuticals are used in different therapeutic fields. Key topics are the immune system, the respiratory system and the circulatory system. The course focuses on regulating the function of these organ systems and the pathophysiology of selected illnesses and pharmaceuticals used to treat them.

The student may lack a maximum of one passed course from the first year of study. The partial exam in drug calculations in the course FARB1400 is exempt from the progression requirement.

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

Knowledge

The student

• can describe the structure and function of the immune system, respiratory system and circulatory system
• can explain how the function of the above-mentioned organ systems can be regulated
• can explain the cellular/molecular mechanisms of action of drugs and endogenous signal molecules related to the above-mentioned organ systems, including target molecules and signalling pathways
• can explain the pharmacological effects and probable side effects of relevant drug classes
• can explain the connection between physiology, pathophysiology and the principles of drug treatment of selected therapeutic areas
• can describe the activation mechanisms, function and regulation of the immune system
• can describe the conditions for immunological memory and vaccination
• can describe the Norwegian recommendations for diet, nutrition and physical activity published by the Norwegian Directorate of Health

Skills

The student

• can apply knowledge of mechanisms of action, effects and side-effects in the assessment of drug treatment of selected therapeutic areas
• can communicate and discuss relevant subject matter with fellow students
• can work individually and in groups using a problem-based approach to relevant subject matter

General competence

The student

• can demonstrate an awareness of drug use in selected therapeutic areas
• can familiarise himself/herself with the mechanisms of action of new drugs and the treatment principles of selected therapeutic areas

Work and teaching methods include lectures, problem-based learning (PBL), seminars, and skills training in the form of laboratory assignments.

The following must have been approved in order for the student to take the exam:

• Minimum attendance of 80% in supervised group work (PBL) and the laboratory course

Individual oral exam, up to 30 minutes.

Alphanumeric/financial calculator with cleared memory. A digital calculator is available to the student during the exam.

Grade scale A-F

Subjects covered by the course, with credits specified:

• Immunology 5 credits
• Physiology 4 credits
• Pharmacology 6 credits