EPN-V2

SFF5000 Philosophy of Social Science Course description

Course name in Norwegian
Vitenskapsteori
Study programme
Master Programme in Applied Social Sciences - Programme Option Child Care, part-time
Master Programme in Applied Social Sciences - Programme Option Child Care
Master in Applied Social Sciences: Programme Option Family Therapy
Master Programme in Applied Social Sciences - Programme Option Family Therapy, part time
Master in Programme Applied Social Sciences
Master Programme in Applied Social Sciences
Elective modules, Master Programme in Applied Social Sciences
Master Programme in Applied Social Sciences - Programme Option Social Work, part-time
Master Programme in Applied Social Sciences - Programme Option Social Work
Weight
10.0 ECTS
Year of study
2021/2022
Curriculum
SPRING 2022
Schedule
Programme description
Course history

Introduction

Philosophy of Social Science is the study of philosophical knowledge and activity. The course discusses the philosophy of social science's basis and raises questions that are relevant for professional social work and the work on the master's thesis. Relevant topics are the role of values in research, realism/social constructivism, evidence-based practice and politics, essential features of social reality, criteria for interpretation, causal reasoning.

The course includes the analysis and discussion of relevant social research. The course is closely related to other courses on the master's programme and the development of the master's thesis.

Required preliminary courses

None.

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, the students are expected to have achieved the following knowledge and skills:

Knowledge

The student has:

  • in-depth insight into key philosophy of science topics that are relevant for the social sciences
  • advanced knowledge of theories and terms that make it possible to systematically reflect on social scientific activities and social work practice
  • in-depth understanding of the theoretical basis for quantitative and qualitative methods

Skills

The student is capable of:

  • analysing and discussing social research using key philosophy of science terms and theory
  • analysing and assessing philosophy of science positions in social science literature
  • considering and discussing the philosophy of science basis for their own research projects

Competence

The student has:

  • can discuss the relationship between research and theories of research
  • a well developed ability to question the basis of research results

Teaching and learning methods

The coursework will give the students insight into areas of mathematics that are important when modelling technical and natural science systems and processes. The subjects covered are included in engineering programmes the world over and are necessary to effective and precise communication between engineers. Students will practise using mathematical software in the work on the course, which will enable them to carry out calculations in a work situation.

Course requirements

No requirements over and above the admission requirements.

Assessment

Students will take an individual six-hour written school exam.

Permitted exam materials and equipment

Teaching is organised as scheduled work sessions, during which the students complete exercises in the subject matter presented ('lectured'). The exercises include solving problems, discussions, collaboration and individual work. Use of numerical software will be included.

In the scheduled work sessions, the students will be offered to participate in 'peer assessment'. This means that the students assess each other's work and give feedback to promote learning.

Between the scheduled work sessions, the students must work individually and/or in groups on calculation exercises and practical use of numerical software.

Grading scale

None.

Examiners

Individual written exam, 3 hours.

The exam result can be appealed.

Course contact person

All printed and written aids, as well as a calculator.