Social science theories for rural development
Course description
The purpose of the course is to give students an understanding of how social science theories can be used to understand complex social and sustainability issues, as a preparation for further studies and independent work (theses). During the course, students learn how theories are used in the implementation of scientific work in rural development.
Entry Requirements
Course facts
LU0072, Social science theories for rural development, 15.0 Hp
Print syllabus
Syllabus
Finalized by: Jon Petter Gustafsson, 2022-12-12
Valid from : Autumn semester 2023 (2023-08-28)
Level
First cycle (G1F)
Main field of study
Rural Development
Grading Scale
The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.
Course language
Swedish
Entry Requirements
Objectives
The purpose of the course is to give students an understanding of how social science theories can be used to understand complex social and sustainability issues, as a preparation for further studies and independent work (theses). During the course, students learn how theories are used in the implementation of scientific work in rural development.
After completion of this course the student shall be able to:
- describe and explain different philosophy of science perspectives
- describe the main features of the social science research history
- describe, problematize and use common social science theories in rural development
- understand and use theoretical concepts including structure, agency, power, gender and class
- discuss the consequences of choosing between different theoretical starting points for identifying research problems, formulating research questions and interpreting empirical material in rural development.
Content
Thematic content
Students practice using and problematizing social science theories to explain specific situations and phenomena, as well as connecting methods and empirical material to theories. Students learn to understand and use basic theoretical concepts such as structure, agency, power, gender and class. The students also learn to interpret various philosophy of science perspectives to understand the main differences between natural science and social science research focusing on how theories are used. By describing the main features of the history of social science research, students learn to understand and explain the scientific context of societal issues and connect them to current sustainability problems as well as research in rural development.
Implementation
The course uses different teaching methods to promote students' learning and discussions through a combination of lectures, literature studies, seminars and exercises.
The course focuses on the following general competencies: critical thinking; oral communication; written communication.
The course includes mandatory attendance at the seminars.
Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course
Approved written presentation and approved participation in mandatory seminars.
Responsible Department/Equivalent
Department of Urban and Rural Development
Supplementary information
Included in program
- Rural Development - Societal Change
- Agricultural Science with a Specialisation in Rural Development
Module set
| Title | Credits | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Single module | 15.0 | 0001 |
The Course Replaces
LU0088