Theory of Science and Ethics TN900

Theory of science will be discussed, and emphasis will be placed on describing how a scientific knowledge of nature emerges and that our knowledge of nature has been and is under development. The creative process in research will be emphasized. The structure of a scientific theory will be discussed, and each of the elements of the structure (assumptions, deductions, statements and testing), and the interconnection between them will be thoroughly discussed and illustrated by examples from the history of science.

The Ethics component of the course will address adaptation of fundamental ethical principles to scientific activity, herein prevention of plagiarism and other scientific misconduct.


Course description for study year 2021-2022. Please note that changes may occur.

Facts
Course code

TN900

Credits (ECTS)

5

Semester tution start

Spring

Number of semesters

1

Exam semester

Spring

Language of instruction

English, Norwegian

Offered by

Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Safety, Economics and Planning

Learning outcome
Upon completion of the course the students shall be able to understand the distinctive character of natural science, and understand that knowledge of nature is under development (through examples of the history of science). Further, they shall have acquired insight in the creative process, which in turn will increase the students own ability to think creatively, i.e. to approach a problem from a variety of angles. The students shall be able to understand the basis of scientific disagreement and to contribute in a constructive manner in public debate.
Content

Theory of science will be discussed, and emphasis will be placed on describing how a scientific knowledge of nature emerges and that our knowledge of nature has been and is under development. The creative process in research will be emphasized. The structure of a scientific theory will be discussed, and each of the elements of the structure (assumptions, deductions, statements and testing), and the interconnection between them will be thoroughly discussed and illustrated by examples from the history of science.

The Ethics component of the course will address adaptation of fundamental ethical principles to scientific activity, herein prevention of plagiarism and other scientific misconduct.

Required prerequisite knowledge
None
Exam
Form of assessment Weight Duration Marks Aid
Project work 1/1 Pass - Fail

Course teacher(s)
Course coordinator: Frank Asche
Head of Department: Tore Markeset
Method of work
Project work
Open for
Technology and Natural Science - PhD programme
Literature
Search for literature in Leganto