2112.14 - Basic Course in Theory of Science


Course number
2112.14
Title
Basic Course in Theory of Science
ECTS
10
Prerequisites
Students are required to hold an upper secondary education diploma or equivalent qualification.
Purpose
To provide students with a foundation in theory of science, focusing on aspects relevant to the humanities and social sciences. The course aims to give students insight into the historical interplay between science, philosophy and society, as well as knowledge of the main contents of schools of thought in theory of science central to academic discussions about the humanities and social sciences. The course will emphasise the acquisition of knowledge about the main contents, theories and processes underpinning disciplines in the humanities and social sciences, in addition to generating a basic understanding of the approaches used in related academic disciplines. Students are expected to learn to reflect critically on theories.
Content
The foundations of general theories of science, particularly aspects relevant to the humanities and social sciences. Discussions on different theories of sciences, as well as the history of the humanities and social sciences. The course seeks to equip student to assess schools of thought in theory of science and the impact of perspectives in theory of science on research in these disciplines.
Learning and teaching approaches
The duration of the course is approximately 30 hours of class-based learning. The learning and teaching strategies used include lectures, presentations and discussions. Students are required to read introductory literature and selected primary texts, which together provide an introduction to issues in theory of science.
Learning outcomes
Learning outcomes: Successful students can demonstrate ability to: • communicate the main contents of relevant schools of scientific thought • describe similarities and differences between different schools of scientific thought • formulate critical questions regarding schools of scientific thought • demonstrate how different schools of scientific thought may be a source of inspiration for certain disciplines • analyse schools of scientific thought in terms of their philosophical foundations • place schools of scientific thought in the context of the humanities and social sciences.
Assessment method
Five-hour written exam. All study aids permitted.
Examination
Internal
Marking scale
P-
Contact
Hans Andrias Sølvará