EPN-V2

ACIT4100 Understanding and Communicating Research Course description

Course name in Norwegian
Understanding and Communicating Research
Study programme
Master's Programme in Applied Computer and Information Technology
Weight
10.0 ECTS
Year of study
2023/2024
Curriculum
FALL 2023
Schedule
Programme description
Course history

Introduction

Passed first year of the programme or equivalent

Required preliminary courses

No formal requirements over and above the admission requirements.

Learning outcomes

A student who has completed this course should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

 

Knowledge

On successful completion of this course the student:

  • has thorough knowledge of writing in research processes
  • has advanced knowledge of forums and channels in which research results are published
  • has an introductory knowledge of the philosophy of science related to falsificationism, paradigms and research programs
  • has thorough knowledge of the ethical basis for professional codes of conduct
  • has advanced knowledge of writing styles related to research
  • has thorough knowledge of structural templates for essay texts
  • has thorough knowledge of the Toulmin model and its applications

 

Skills

On successful completion of this course the student:

  • can find research literature in literature databases
  • can analyse and critically evaluate various information sources
  • can write summaries using his/her own words
  • can use electronic reference tools
  • can identify the research method used in a scientific text
  • can explain the application of a research method in a research project
  • can organize research literature in such a way as to identify patterns and commonalities
  • can communicate a research-related topic using digital media
  • can write texts using classic style

General competence

On successful completion of this course the student:

  • can reflect and discuss plagiarism
  • has a thorough knowledge of responsibility for author and co-authorship in accordance with the Vancouver Convention

Content

The course will guide the student through a series of topics related to research and how research is communicated. The topics range from debate and rhetoric, philosophy of science, writing genres, narrative templates to professional ethics and plagiarism.

 

Throughout the course, the student will also search for and collect research literature on a topic of their own chosing. This literature will be organized and categorized in such a way that it allows the students to look for patterns and commonalities. The literature will also form the backbone of a popular science essay, which the student works on throughout the course.

 

The weeks are organized so that the students own search for material is combined with relevant topics and training on how to read, understand and summarize it. Towards the end of the course, more emphasis will be on writing and communication, where the students will look for ways to best communicate their findings. Each student will record a video presentation of their chosen topic in order to test the outline of their essay.

 

The role of the expert, either as a professional expert or a researcher in academia, will be discussed at several points in the course. In addition, we look at the interplay between the public and the impact technology has on society.

Teaching and learning methods

The work and teaching methods include flipped classroom, lectures, seminars, skills training and self-study. In seminars, the students work in groups. This course uses digital learning resources in the form of video lectures, digital tests and exercises.

Course requirements

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

  • a minimum attendance of 80 % at scheduled seminars and skills training sessions
  • individual multiple choice test in accordance with set criteria, up to 2 hours
  • project assignment in groups of 2-4 students in accordance with set criteria

Assessment

Written individual semester paper between 6500 and 8500 words.

The exam can be appealed.

 

New/postponed exam

In case of failed exam or legal absence, the student may apply for a new or postponed exam. New or postponed exams are offered within a reasonable time span following the regular exam. The student is responsible for registering for a new/postponed exam within the time limits set by OsloMet. The Regulations for new or postponed examinations are available in Regulations relating to studies and examinations at OsloMet.

Permitted exam materials and equipment

All aids are permitted, provided the rules for plagiarism and source referencing are complied with.

Grading scale

Grade scale A-F

Examiners

Two internal examiners. External examiner is used periodically.

Course contact person

9 ECTS overlap with RAD1410, 1 ECTS overlap with RADPRA2 and 10 ECTS overlap with RAD2100.