Course syllabus - Theoretical perspectives on Innovation and Design

Objectives

The course gives possibilities for deepening and problematizing different epistemological perspectives, at first hand regarding the area Innovation and design but also on fundamental and comprehensive level. Of particular importance is to throw light upon how theoretical and practical traditions of knowledge interplay and can be integrated.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding:
-give an account of central epistemological currents in relation to their historical and philosophical connections

-give an account of different aspects of knowledge and how they are expressed in different schools and traditions

Skills and ability:
-be able to independently develop a concrete approach to a problem and - with support from pertinent theories - elucidate it on a general level

Values and attitude:
-with support from suitable works of reference be able to discuss the theoretical starting points for chosen research problems

-through well-founded argumentation suggest an adequate theoretical frame for a scientific study connected to the area of Innovation and product realization

Course content

This course deals with traditions and development within theories of knowledge and science. These traditions are put in relation to interdisciplinary and applied research. The content and development of the concepts "scientific basis" and "artistic basis" are discussed from different perspectives. Concepts and ethical theory are examined in the light of practical research problems.

Tuition

Seminars where the participants alternately are responsible for the introduction of problem areas and issues with starting point both in the course books and in additional literature.

Specific requirements

Bachelors degree or equivalent in Product and Process Development, Information Design, Innovation or equivalent, and Sv B and En A.

Examination

Exercise (PM01), 1.5 credits, marks Pass (G)
Seminar (SEM1), 1.5 credits, marks Pass (G)
Thesis (UPS1), Degree Project, Essay, 4.5 credits, marks Pass (G)

A student who has a certificate from MDU regarding a disability has the opportunity to submit a request for supportive measures during written examinations or other forms of examination, in accordance with the Rules and Regulations for Examinations at First-cycle and Second-cycle Level at Mälardalen University (2020/1655). It is the examiner who takes decisions on any supportive measures, based on what kind of certificate is issued, and in that case which measures are to be applied.

Suspicions of attempting to deceive in examinations (cheating) are reported to the Vice-Chancellor, in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance, and are examined by the University’s Disciplinary Board. If the Disciplinary Board considers the student to be guilty of a disciplinary offence, the Board will take a decision on disciplinary action, which will be a warning or suspension.

Grade

Pass, Fail