Faglig innhold

For more information about admission to the course, see https://www.ntnu.no/kult/forskerutdanning

This course prepares PhD candidates and early career researchers within biotechnology, life science and neighbouring scientific fields to adopt Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) in their research practice. We introduce the body of academic knowledge underpinning the RRI concept, namely Science and Technology Studies (STS) and history, philosophy and sociology of science. The main course objective is to enhance participants knowledge on how scientific work is intertwined with changes in society and to introduce them to ideas of democratization of science and current international discussions on RRI. We will combine theoretical insights with long group discussions and hands-on exercises of applying RRI-methods in the context of participants research projects. Discussions on strengths of limitations of the concept of RRI in research practice will be included.

Læringsutbytte

After completing the course (learning outcome), the students shall 1) Understand theories that show how science and technology development is neither deterministic nor value-free, and that R&D has enormous potential to redefine the meaning of being human and conditions of human existence. 2) Understand the way of thinking RRI is based on and know its central dimensions. 3) Be able to engage in broader debates surrounding their research and address social, ethical, political and economic aspects of their work. 4) Be able to critically reflect on the R&D system and take part in initiatives for its improvement.

Læringsformer og aktiviteter

Mandatory participation in teaching and team assignments. Participants will conduct a comprehensive homework in the form of a hands-on exercise in between the two gatherings as part of the assignment.

Obligatoriske aktiviteter

• Deltakelse

Anbefalte forkunnskaper

Requires admission to a PhD programme (but post doctors may also participate).

Kursmateriell

Course literature will be distributed to participants in due time before the course.