Scientific theory and method (social sciences, CREE, pedagogy, sign language)

The subject deals with scientific ways of thinking in school and the teaching profession. It will focus on various research paradigms, traditions, and the relationship between ontology, epistemology, and the choice of research approaches. Students will receive training and practice in the use of various quantitative and qualitative research methods, including source-critical methods. Furthermore, emphasis will be placed on research design, emphasizing the relationship between theme, problem statement, research questions, and the use of relevant theory and methods. Research ethics and issues concerning privacy are also part of the subject. Students will develop an understanding of how the theory of science and research methods are relevant to work in schools.

KNOWLEDGE

The student

• has in-depth knowledge of various research paradigms and the relationships between ontological and epistemological standpoints and the choice of research methods
• has in-depth knowledge of the characteristics of various research designs and research methods and how this can promote scientific thinking in schools
• has advanced knowledge of privacy and research ethics guidelines
• has advanced knowledge of how scientific subject matter from their own research is presented and made relevant for professional and pedagogical work in schools
• has in-depth knowledge of various methods for data collection and analysis of data material and how this can be used in their own teaching in schools
• has in-depth knowledge of the theory of science and qualitative and quantitative methods to be able to conduct scientific investigations within their subject area

SKILLS

The student

• can design and carry out independent research projects/empirical investigations and critically relate to their own choices
• can make reasoned choices of methods for collecting and analyzing data material and use this didactically in work with exploratory teaching
• can assess whether the project makes it necessary to apply for project approval from SIKT and can, in collaboration with the supervisor, apply for this if required
• can analyze and critically relate to knowledge sources (subject literature and data material) and use them to structure and formulate professional reasoning
• can analyze and critically relate to national and international professionally relevant research and apply this knowledge in professional practice

GENERAL COMPETENCE

The student

• can analyze relevant issues related to their own research field and school subjects
• can contribute to development work that promotes professional and pedagogical innovation in schools
• can use scientific thinking in the classroom, school, and teaching profession
• can assess and ensure the quality of their own and others’ research and use research in work in schools

The subject includes lectures, seminars, guidance, work with assignments, individually and in groups, oral and written student presentations and fellow student feedback. It is expected that all students contribute actively in the various activities. The students must submit a written project assignment. The project assignment will form the scientific theoretical and research methodological basis for the research project. Detailed requirements and delivery deadline will be announced at the start of the semester.