Philosophies of social science

Introduction to the philosophies of social science

Paradigms and directions within social science

Research ethics

Research as a means of systematic progress

Quantitative and qualitative research designs

Characteristics of good research topics and how to create one

Literature studies

Choice of methods, including planning and how to carry out and analyze experiments/studies

Use of research databases for problem solving

Data analysis and statistics

How to create a project plan

Emerging focus on business ethics and the businesses responsibilities with respect to the society

Action-based research - methodologies and philosophies

After completing the course, the student is supposed to:

Knowledge

have deep knowledge about central questions within philosophies of social science

be able to analyze central topics within philosophies of social science

Skills

be able to suggest a topic of investigation within qualitative research

independently be able to make a plan of how to carry out a scientific work

General knowledge

be able to report results from scientific projects, including projects carried out by the student herself

have developed a clear ethical attitude in relation to how scientific methodology can be used to strive for a sustainable development of industry, the business world and society

The course will be made accessible for both campus-  and remote students. Every student are free to choose the pedagogic arrangement form that is best fitted for her/his own requirement.The lectures in the course will be given on campus and are open for both categories of students. Lectures that sums up the main issues in the lecture will also be available on internet through NTNU's learning management system. Tutoring are given at campus in accordance to announced times. In addition there will be at least on gathering at campus for remote students with mandatory laboratory exercises. Tutoring is also available on internet.

Mandatory coursework requirements:
2 completed essays