Entry requirements

A Bachelor's degree of at least 180 credits. Proficiency in English equivalent to the Swedish upper secondary course English 6.

Learning outcomes

After successful completion of the course, students shall be able to:

• explain the fundamental connections between philosophy of science and scientific methods;
• critically analyse how qualitative and quantitative methods can be used to study interdisciplinary questions related to the sustainable development of coastal areas;
• reflect on and demonstrate an understanding of ethical aspects of scientific methods, with particular emphasis on sustainable development.

Content

A broad introduction to several theoretical foundations and methodological considerations relevant to knowledge production. The course introduces how quantitative and qualitative methods, along with central statistical ideas related to experimental design, modelling, and data analysis, are integrated into the scientific method. Particular emphasis is placed on interdisciplinary questions relevant to the sustainable development of coastal areas. The course addresses how to conduct literature searches, assess the quality and reliability of information sources, and integrate scientific sources into academically grounded discussions. It covers research design, quantitative and qualitative approaches to data collection and data analysis, sources of environmental data and other relevant data - especially in relation to sustainable development - as well as ethical aspects of scientific methods.

Instruction

Lectures, active participation in exercises, and group work

Assessment

Written assignments and group work (3hp), oral examination (2hp)

Other regulations

If special circumstances exist, the examiner may make exceptions to the stated form of examination and allow an individual student to be examined in an alternative manner. Special circumstances may, for example, include a recommendation for targeted pedagogical support from the university’s coordinator for students with disabilities.