1. “Fagets Videnskabsteori” Science theory Why and how? Introduction Lars Bo Henriksen Lektor, Ph.D.

2. Science theory Content 1. Lesson. Research, science and truth (LBH) About science and different sciences. Rationalism, positivism and hermeneutics/phenomenology. About truth and truth claims. Scientific method. 2. Lesson. Technology, engineers and engineering science (LBH) What is technology? What is an engineer? What is engineering science?

3. Science theory 3. Lesson. Arguments and reason (CP) How do we state the reasons for … ? What is an argument, what is a good argument? Practical argumentation. What types of reasons do we state in science and engineering? Scientific methods; inductive methods, the hypothetical deductive method and reasoning for the best explanation. Methods in science and engineering.

4. Science theory 4. Lesson. Scientific models and the use of models (CP) Models as interest relative representations; the reductionist thought: abstraction, idealisation and approcsimation; scientific theories and the development of models; same object many models. 5. Lesson. Scientific methods, paradigms and students projects (LBH) What is a paradigm? What is method? How do we write chapter 2?

5. Science theory Mini-project Writing chapter 2 (Method) for the main project or an appendix to main report 10 pages (perhaps) “What do you think?” - find a subject yourself Evaluation: Take it easy - Evaluated by LBH and CP (and main supervisor)

6. Science theory Make your own choice Ethics – find a dilemma and discuss it Method – present central concepts from debates on scientific method, argumentation, explanation, understanding, truth, reliability, validity Science history – Where did your topic come from, how did it develop, special features, relations to other sciences. Your topic in society – how do you relate to society, to the genral public, to politics …

7. Science theory (Proposal) Mini-project Initiating problem (Society, History, Ethics) Problem statement (Method, science theory) Analyses Conclusion Perspectives (Society, Ethics)

8. Science theory Why science theory? Because you are at the university!! Because the parliament and government says so!!

9. Science theory The birth of science theory Tradition – philosophy at university (Filosoficum) The new ”Filosofikum” –Public debate –Studium generale –Proposal in parliament February 2000 Mystery of education and union of university deans –Expert rapport –Ministry of education - 10 point programme September 2004

10. Science theory Content “Filosofikum” Science theory Reason”Bildung”Better scientists ContentGeneralGeneral and (History of philosophy,specific logic and method)(what?) ResponcibilityInstitute of philosophyStudy board TeachingPhilosophersDual competence ExamOralTest, 8-15 page essay PlaceringFirst yearLater (6. semester) ”How much?”1/4 year2 ects