Theories of Science and Research Methods

The content of this course is theory of science and different research methods and their suitability in different research work. The focus will be on different research paradigms, traditions and the connection between ontology, epistemology and the choice of research approaches. The course emphasize that students shall be become familiar with both quantitative and qualitative research approaches, as well as research ethics guidelines and questions. During the work on the course, the students will be in the process of starting their own research work. Therefore, help with formulating problems, and finding theory and method for one's own work will be a central part of the course. Central to the course is also academic writing, such as the construction of scientific text, precise presentation and the correct use of reference systems.

KNOWLEDGE:

The student

• has in-depth knowledge of different research paradigms and connections between ontological and epistemological points of view and choice of research methods
• has in-depth knowledge of characteristics of different research designs and research methods
• has in-depth knowledge of different methods for data collection and analysis of data material
• has in-depth knowledge of research ethics aspects and the researcher's role and responsibilities

SKILLS:

The student:

• can, under supervision, develop research questions related to studying pedagogical or special pedagogical issues
• can design and carry out independent research projects / empirical research
• can make reasoned choices of methods for collecting and analyzing data material
• can analyze and relate critically to sources of knowledge (professional literature and data material) and use them to structure and formulate professional reasoning

GENERAL COMPETENCE:

The student

• can account for and justify methodological choices concerning choice of research focus
• can analyze relevant issues related to own research field
• can communicate results from independent research work
• can contribute to work with pedagogical or special educational development in school and in collaboration with relevant actors

The teaching will vary between lectures and student-active working methods