General provisions

The course is included in the Master's Programme in Religion in Peace and Conflict.

The course is included in the Master's Programme in Theology and Religious Studies.

Entry requirements

A Bachelor's degree in which the main subject consists of at least 90 credits from theological, historical-philosophical, linguistic, law, educational or social sciences faculty or equivalent. The main field must include an independent thesis of at least 15 credits.

Learning outcomes

The general aim of the course is to provide the student with theoretical perspectives for studying religious and ethically based engagement among individuals and in society.

After completion, the student is expected to be able to:

• demonstrate understanding of the central theories for researching the various roles of religion in contemporary society from current social scientific research
• show ability to identify and critically discuss premises and application of theories in different research projects
• present and argue for choice of approach and central research questions in relation to using theory for empirical research
• show ability to apply specific theories in analysing empirical material
• critically reflect upon personal and cultural impact on the role of the researcher, both in terms of analysing texts as well as in a project plan formation
• reflect upon the ethical considerations involved in research, as well as having knowledge of the international, national and disciplinary-specific systems in place to monitor them

Content

The course provides an orientation in the use of theory for researching the various ways in which religion becomes a source of meaning and social action in contemporary society. Students will gain deeper insight in theoretical perspectives and how these are applied in current research, particularly in the areas of media, politics, civil society, health and migration studies. Critical reflection on and training in the choice and application of theory with regard to research questions and methodology is an integral part of the course.

Instruction

The course is a distance-learning course. The students must fulfil written assignments and participate in on-line seminars Contact between teachers and students takes place via a learning platform. Access to internet is essential.

Assessment

The course is assessed on the basis of active participation in written seminar discussions (2,5 hp) and written assignments (5 hp).

If there are special reasons for doing so, an examiner may make an exception from the method of assessment indicated and allow a student to be assessed by another method. An example of special reasons might be a certificate regarding special pedagogical support from the University's disability coordinator.

Other regulations

Please note that the stated teaching methods may be replaced by self-studies if there is a very low number of students.

Transitional provisions

Students retain the right to be examined on the course according to this syllabus for 3 semesters after their course instance has ended. Normally, instruction will be given according to the latest version of the course syllabus only.