Examen Facultatum, Social Science Theory and Epistemology
EX-104-1
Included in Study
Bachelor's Programme in Planning and Communication
Bachelor's Programme in Global Development Studies
Language of teaching
English
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course, the student should be able to:
explain the historical background of social science, with particular emphasis on global development, planning and communication
critically assess social science research results
critically reflect on, evaluate and use academic texts/genres, following established standards in social sciences
distinguish between different aspects and styles of scholarly writing and other types of text
make ethical judgements related to social science research and uses of social science research
Contents
Through the course students gain insights into theoretical, historical and institutional lines of development in social science, with a focus particularly on the intersection of studies within global development, planning and communication. A key topic is the issue of how social science traditions and research frameworks differ from natural science. The course provides knowledge of social science methods, research paradigms, different knowledge systems, how knowledge is or can be applied in decision-making in planning, development administration and management, as well as politics and the public sphere. Ethical dilemmas related to social science as a basis of professional practice are also addressed.
Teaching and learning methods
Lectures, seminars and group work. Estimated workload is 270 hours.
Examination requirements
Group work is compulsory and must be passed in order to take the exam. Instructions are given in Canvas.
Examinations
A final 8-hour written take-home examination, graded assessment A-F.
Student evaluation
The person responsible for the course decides, in cooperation with student representative, the form of student evaluation and whether the course is to have a midway or end of course evaluation in accordance with the quality system for education, chapter 4.1.