course-details-portlet

MGLU5504 - Theories of Science and Research Methods 5-10 (Mathematics)

About

Examination arrangement

Examination arrangement: School exam
Grade: Letter grades

Evaluation Weighting Duration Grade deviation Examination aids
School exam 100/100 6 hours E

Course content

This course deals with theories of science, research methods and their applicability in mathematics education research. Scientific paradigms and the relationship between ontology, epistemology, and choice of research methods are discussed. Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches are discussed, with more emphasis on qualitative approaches. The course prepares students for their master's project, focusing on the relationship between themes, research questions, literature, and methods. Other important aspects of the course are ethical considerations and academic writing: structure, precise language, and correct use of reference systems.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

The student

  • has advanced knowledge about different research paradigms and the relationship between ontological and epistemological positions and choice of research methods
  • has advanced knowledge about features of various research designs and research methods
  • has advanced knowledge about different methods for collection and analysis of data
  • has advanced knowledge about ethical aspects of research
  • has advanced knowledge about the presentation of research

Skills

The student

  • can develop researchable questions relevant to the field of mathematics education
  • can design and conduct research projects independently
  • can make justified choices of methods for collection and analysis of data
  • can analyse and take a critical stance towards different sources of knowledge (such as literature and data material), and use this to structure and formulate academic arguments

General competence

The student

  • can describe and justify methodological choices related to a chosen theme
  • can analyse relevant problem statements related to the teaching and learning of mathematics in school
  • can contribute to new ideas and innovation in school mathematics

Learning methods and activities

The course is organized in seminars, and the schedule is published at the beginning of each semester. Between the seminars, the students are expected to study literature and work with assignments related to the individual student's preparation for a master thesis. The course activities include lectures, exercises, discussions, and oral and written student presentations. Discussions and other forms of collaboration, such as peer-reviewing, are central components of the course, and all students are expected to contribute actively to such activities. It is therefore essential to attend the teaching sessions.

Compulsory assignments

  • Obligatory course work 1 according to course description

Further on evaluation

Compulsory assignments:

Five compulsory assignments, which must all be accepted for the student to attend the exam. The compulsory assignments are related to different phases of a research journey in education. This includes (a) choosing a paradigm, (b) conducting a literature review and defining a relevant research problem, (c) choosing a research methodology and developing data collection instruments, (d) writing a research proposal, and (e) conducting a pilot study. Assignments also include analyzing both qualitative and quantitative data. Of these five assignments, four are written submissions and one is an oral presentation.

Specific conditions

Admission to a programme of study is required:
Primary and Lower Secondary Teacher Education for Years 5-10 (MGLU5-10) - some programmes

Required previous knowledge

Completed Mathematics 1 and Mathematics 2 (60 credits in total), or equivalent, and completed FoU-project in the third year of Primary and Lower Secondary Teacher Education.

Course materials

The complete reading list will be published on Blackboard before the course begins.

More on the course

No

Facts

Version: 1
Credits:  15.0 SP
Study level: Second degree level

Coursework

Term no.: 1
Teaching semester:  AUTUMN 2024

Language of instruction: English, Norwegian

Location: Trondheim

Subject area(s)
  • Teacher Education
  • Mathematics
Contact information
Course coordinator:

Department with academic responsibility
Department of Teacher Education

Timetable

List view
Calendar view

Examination

Examination arrangement: School exam

Term Status code Evaluation Weighting Examination aids Date Time Examination system Room *
Autumn ORD School exam 100/100 E 2024-12-06 09:00 INSPERA
Room Building Number of candidates
SL520 Sluppenvegen 14 13
SL110 lilla sone Sluppenvegen 14 13
Spring ORD School exam 100/100 E INSPERA
Room Building Number of candidates
  • * The location (room) for a written examination is published 3 days before examination date. If more than one room is listed, you will find your room at Studentweb.
Examination

For more information regarding registration for examination and examination procedures, see "Innsida - Exams"

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