Course syllabus - Scientific theory and research methods

Objectives

The course aims to give students an introduction to the concepts and issues of science theory, as well as a basic knowledge of research methods in science and technology, especially computer science. Information retrieval and a source-critical attitude are practiced when writing the scientific article that is written and presented during the course. The students develop their analytical skills and critical thinking as they review and oppose others’ articles.
 

Learning outcomes

After completed the course, the student shall:

1. know and be able to use central concepts and issues in science theory
2. be able to analyze scientific and pseudo-scientific texts and make critical examination of these
3. be able to review scientific articles
4. know some important research methods in computer science
5. be able to write a scientific article (based on own work or information found in scientific articles or similar), relate the article to science theory and research methods, and present this article 
6. be able to oppose others' presentations
7. be able to practice a critical approach to knowledge, science and research

Course content

Course modules:
1. Science theory. What is science and what is not? The scientific method for creating knowledge.
2. Research methodology in science and technology. Research methodology for computer science.
3. Scientific writing. Searching scientific articles. Writing and presentation of a scientific article. Examination and opposition of scientific articles.

Tuition

Lectures (in video form, with study questions), assignments and a seminar (on campus or interactive on distance).

Specific requirements

120 credits of which at least 80 credits in technology or informatics, including at least 30 credits in programming or software development. In addition, at least 18 months of documented work experience in software development or related areas. In addition, Swedish course B/Swedish course 3 and English course A/English course 6 are required. For courses given entirely in English exemption is made from the requirement in Swedish course B/Swedish course 3

Examination

Written assignment (INL1), study questions and assignments based on the video material in the course, 3 credits, (examines the learning objectives 1-4), marks Fail (U), 3, 4 or 5.
Seminar (SEM1), writing an own article, reviewing others' articles, presenting own article, and oppose others' articles, 2 credits, (examines the learning objectives 3 and  5-7), marks Fail (U), 3, 4 or 5.

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 with distinction, Pass with credit, Pass, Fail

Interim Regulations and Other Regulations

The course completely overlaps with DVA450 Scientific theory and research methods and also with 5 credits towards CDT403 Research Methods in the Natural Sciences and Engineering.