Having completed the course, the student will have an understanding of the nature of science and scientific research and be aware of the importance of basic decisions related to methodology and ethical issues concerning his/her own Master´s or Doctoral thesis project. He/she will be able to read research reports in a critical and informed way, evaluating factors of reliability, according to the approach used in a certain field. The student will be able to study in an ethically sound way, and, when making his/her own research, he/she can recognize essential ethical matters and questions. The student will be able to tell the difference between scientific discourse and neighboring discourses and write his/her thesis in suitable style.

Obtaining 2 ECTS credits: Active participation in lectures and a learning diary OR

Obtaining 5 ECTS credits: Active participation in lectures and an extended learning diary based on lectures and literature

The course focuses on the basic and general features of scientific research, methodology, and argumentation, as applicable to any field of study. Some central themes in the philosophy of science will also be discussed, in an introductory manner.

The course is intended to all new international UTA Master’s degree students, but it will serve also international Doctoral students. Other degree and exchange students may join if there are free places.

Contact person: Coordinator of international education, Anna Wansén-Kaseva