MAPD4000 Philosophy of Science and Design Research Course description

Design has evolved into a discipline that aims to make a positive impact in many different aspects of nature and society. As a result, designers find themselves in increasingly cross-disciplinary and multimodal environments, where they need to discover, investigate, define problems, and support claims based on evidence gained through universal scientific and academic practices. In this course, students will gain the ability to conduct scientific design research and develop an understanding of its relevance to practice.

Admission to the Master's 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

• the philosophical underpinnings of scientific research
• various theories and methods in science and design research
• ethical implications of scientific and professional work

Skills

The student is able to

• plan and complete their own research projects
• identify, discuss and evaluate relevant research theories and methods
• integrate academic scientific methods and coherence in practice based and creative research
• write articles according to universal academic standards

General competence

The student

• has a developed understanding of academic and practical design research and its relevance to practice

The most important teaching and learning methods for this course are lectures, seminars, group work, self-study, studio work and tutoring.

Passed first year of the programme or equivalent.

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 pathological processes relating to diseases and injuries of the musculoskeletal system, rheumatic diseases, cancer and mental health disorders, and describe causal mechanisms and risk factors
• describe different perspectives on pain and pain mechanisms, and compare neurological, physiological and phenomenological pain theories
• describe challenges encountered by individuals who have undergone treatment of cancer or other serious disease or injury

Skills

The student can

• discuss how disease and injuries of the musculoskeletal system and different pain conditions may affect and be affected by movement, activity and participation across the life span
• evaluate research-based knowledge using the levels in the S-pyramid, interpret the results of single studies and metanalyses reporting on treatment effects, and discuss their value for clinical practice
• give reasons for the methods of examination and use of standardized assessment tools for people with injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system
• reflect on the challenges experienced by people with long-term and progressive diseases and discuss the implications for their own role as a physiotherapist

The work and teaching methods include self-study, group work, seminars, skills training and lectures.

Grade scale A-F

Two internal. External examiner is used periodically.