Course - Theories of Science and Research Methods 5-10 (Mathematics and Science) - MGLU5219
Theories of Science and Research Methods 5-10 (Mathematics and Science)
New from the academic year 2025/2026
About
About the course
Course content
This course deals with theories of science, research methods and their applicability in mathematics and science 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 has multiple purposes including preparing students for their master's project by focusing on the relationship between themes, research questions, literature, and methods, as well as laying a foundation for future professional development. It equips them with the skills to investigate and re-examine their own practice, fostering the ability to engage in professional work and ongoing research in educational settings. Ethical considerations in research are an integrated part of this course.
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 in-depth knowledge of features of various research designs and research methods
- has in-depth knowledge of different methods for collection and analysis of data
- has in-depth knowledge of ethical aspects of research
- has in-depth knowledge of how to present research findings following academic norms.
SKILLS
The student
- can develop researchable questions relevant to the field of mathematics or science education
- can plan and clarify how to collect and analyse research data
- 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
- can report research findings following academic norms in their master’s thesis and future professional work.
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 or science in school
- can disseminate results from an individual work related to their master’s thesis research and demonstrates mastery of the language and genres of science or mathematics education
- can apply knowledge of scientific paradigm and research methodology in their future professional work.
Learning methods and activities
Teaching components will include lectures, individual and group work on tasks, oral and written student presentations, and discussions and other relevant collaboration. Students are expected to actively participate in the teaching activities.
Teaching language
Norwegian or English
Compulsory assignments
- Compulsory work requirements according to the course description
- 70% attendance in lectures
Further on evaluation
Compulsory assignments:
Up to five compulsory assignments, which must all be accepted for the student to qualify for the exam. These assignments are connected to various stages of the research process 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 analysing both qualitative and quantitative data.
70% attendance in lectures.
The students can be assessed or required to take part in coursework and attend teaching related to interdisciplinary topics.
All the mandatory activities must be approved before students can take the exam.
Assessment
School exam: Letter grade A-F
Specific conditions
Admission to a programme of study is required:
Primary and Lower Secondary Teacher Education for Years 1-7 (MGLU1-7)
Primary and Lower Secondary Teacher Education for Years 5-10 (MGLU5-10)
Recommended previous knowledge
Completed 30 credits at master’s level in mathematics or science education from the fourth year of Primary and Lower Secondary Teacher Education, or equivalent.
Required previous knowledge
Completed Mathematics 1/Science 1 and Mathematics 2/ Science 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.
Credit reductions
Course code | Reduction | From |
---|---|---|
MGLU5504 | 15 sp | Autumn 2025 |
MGLU5203 | 15 sp | Autumn 2025 |
MGLU5208 | 15 sp | Autumn 2025 |
Subject areas
- Teacher Education
- Mathematics
- Life Sciences
Contact information
Course coordinator
Lecturers
Department with academic responsibility
Examination
Examination
Ordinary examination - Autumn 2025
School exam
The specified room can be changed and the final location will be ready no later than 3 days before the exam. You can find your room location on Studentweb.