MAPSD4050 Theory of Science and Research Methods Course description

Professional practice builds on the assessment and application of research, and competence from the development of the field and clinical experience. This requires that you, in your professional practice, are able to read, understand and apply research literature and see this in the context of clinical experience and professional development. Theory of science makes up an important part of the basis for understanding scientific activity. Through this part of the course, we want to stimulate an inquisitive and critical approach to knowledge development and with the make the students better equipped to critically assess which basis professional decisions are made. The course Theory of Science and Research Methods also provides an overview of the most used methods in qualitative and quantitative research, as well as on central research ethics principles. Insight into different methods means that you, as a professional practitioner, can identify research literature that is suitable for answering various academic questions.

The course is open to students who have completed at least a one-year introductory course in Development Studies at OsloMet or equivalent courses at other institutions of higher eduaction in Norway or abroad.

See programme description.;

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

Knowledge

The student

• has in-depth knowledge of the research process
• has in-depth knowledge of the most commonly used methods in qualitative and quantitative approaches to research
• has in-depth knowledge of the relationship between theory of science and research methods

Skills

The student is capable of

• planning the collection of qualitative and/or quantitative data
• analysing and interpreting quantitative data, such as descriptive tables and figures
• analysing and interpreting qualitative data, such as different kinds of text material
• identifying and elucidating research ethics issues in their own projects

Competence

The student is capable of

• applying knowledge and skills through critical analysis and reasoning to different types of knowledge, values and perspectives on humanity
• analysing relevant discipline-related, professional and research ethics issues and proposing solutions
• disseminating academic and research results of relevance to the health and social services

• Theory of science
• The research process
• Research design and methods
• Research ethics
• Data collection, analysis and interpretation of quantitative and qualitative data

The course is a full-time academic programme lasting four to six consecutive weeks, offered in the spring semester. The course consists of lectures and seminars with active student participation.

In order to take the exam, the coursework requirement must be approved.

Group assignment

• The assignment is normally written in groups of 3-6 students
• Scope: 2,000 words (+/- 10 %)
• The syllabus must be used in the assignment
• Oral presentation in groups
• The students receive oral feedback from their fellow students and from the lecturer.

The final assessment of this module consists of a four-hour written exam.

New/postponed exam

In case of failed exam or legal absence, the student can apply for a new or postponed exam. New or postponed exam is offered within a reasonable time span following the regular exam. Submission and assessment of this will be in accordance with the conditions originally applicable. The student is responsible for applying to sit for a new or postponed exam within the deadlines stipulated by OsloMet and the Faculty of Education and International Studies.

No examination supoort material is permitted.

The following grading scale is used: A to E for pass and F for no pass.

The exam will be jointly marked by an internal and an external examiner. The external examiner will read a selection of the exam papers and collaborate with the internal examiner in a way that benefits all the students.

MAABI4050, MASYK4050, MASYD4050, MAPO4050, MAPSD4050, ABIO6050, KREFT6050, KARD6050, VPSY6050, VPSYD6050, PSYD6050, HEL6050, BIT6000 overlap 100%.