Entry requirements

180 credits including 20 credits within Industrial Engineering and Management on advanced level. 

Learning outcomes

After a completed course the student will be able to:

• identify and explain basic scientific theoretical points of departure, relevant for scientific work within industrial technology,
• relate different methodological approaches to each other, and describe their benefits and limitations,
• apply qualitative and quantitative methods, including statistical methods, to contribute to knowledge in industrial technology,
• assess and critically review scientific work in industrial technology in the light of how the knowledge presented is related to the study's methodological approach,
• identify and delineate socio-technical research questions in industrial technology, and how they should be tackled methodologically to produce relevant knowledge about the chosen problems,
• plan and carry out a minor study in industrial technology, reflect upon the strenghts and weaknesses of the study, and communicate the results both orally and in writing,
• assess methodological approaches from ethical point of view, and show awareness of research ethics as an important component of scientific method.

Content

Brief discussion of a number of theoretical assumptions and methodological considerations that are relevant to knowledge production in industrial technology. Orientation of the theoretical points of departure that a variety of methods rests upon. Illustration of how different methodological approaches are related to the cognitive problems they adress, and the kind of knowledge they are seeking. Reading and writing excersises, as well as seminars, providing training in analysing and critically examining scientific knowledge in industrial technology, in light of methodological considerations. Application of different qualitative and quantitative methods, including statistics. A minor study, which aims to train and deepen the ability to identify a relevant research question in industrial technology, choose methods for investigating this problem, and reflect on the choice, implementation and results from a methodological and ethical point of view.

Instruction

Lectures, seminars, individual reading and writing exercises, laboratory, statistical toolbox as well as group work.

Assessment

Written assignments and active participation in seminars and group work (5 credits) and written report (5 credits).