ITI46518 Scientific Method and Theory (Autumn 2020)

The course is connected to the following study programs

Mandatory course in the master programme in applied computer science full time and part time.

Lecture Semester

First semester (autumn) in the full time programme.

First or third semester (autumn) in the part time programme.

The student's learning outcomes after completing the course

Knowledge

The student is knowledgeable about central methods and theories within the field of applied computer science, and different perspectives on the use of informatics in the society. This includes:

• Research design and experiment techniques

• Statistical methods

• Methods for design and evaluation of information systems

• Social science methodologies

• Data, analysis and modelling techniques

• Research and development activities at the faculty and its partners

The student is familiar with publishing channels relevant to applied computer science, different types of publications, their roles and functions.

Skills

The student is able to:

• assess scientific literature within the field of applied computer science

• use and review scientific references

• use relevant statistical methods for analysing data

• use methods from social sciences and work with observation and interviews

• use methods for design and evaluation of IT systems

• think critically about the use of information technology deployed in organizations and in the society in general

General competence

After examination, the student has a sufficient understanding of applied computer science and the faculty's research and development activities. The student also has a better understanding of the use of IT in our society.

Content

This course is designed for entering computer science graduate students. The course:

• acquaints students with the theories of current and historical importance.
• introduces or reinforces the tenets of the scientific method.
• introduces the faculty, previews key concept areas being taught in the program.
• discusses research designs and methods appropriate to the computer science program.
• introduces students to the hardware, software, and communication skills to be used throughout the program of studies.

Forms of teaching and learning

Lectures, presentations of scientific work, and lab exercises.

Workload

Four 2-days sessions during daytime, a total of 8 days. Between the sessions, supervision is given. Approx 400 hours.

Examination

Portfolio and individual written exam.

The exam consists of both a portfolio and an individual written exam. The portfolio counts 60% and consists of:

• Two research projects
• One idea paper

The individual written exam counts 40% and is based on the course curriculum. Duration 2 hours. No supporting materials permitted.

Both parts of the exam must be passed to pass the exam as a whole.

The student will get an individual joint grade for the entire course. Grades: Assessment on the A - F grading scale. 

Examiners

External and internal examiner, or to internal examiners.

Conditions for resit/rescheduled exams

Upon re-examination, each part of the examination can be retaken.

Course evaluation

This course is evaluated by a

• Mid-term evaluation (compulsory)

The responsible for the course compiles a report based on the feedback from the students and his/her own experience with the course. The report is discussed by the study quality committee of the faculty of Computer Sciences.

Literature

Last updated 17.04.2018. The reading list may be subject to change before the semester starts.The following textbook is required for this course:

• Salkind, N.J. (2016). Exploring Research (9th ed), ISBN: 978-1292156293.
• APA. (2009). Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (6th ed), ISBN: 978-1433805615

Additional course material will be posted on the learning platform.