Social science theories in sustainable development
Course description
The aim of this course is to give the students knowledge of how social science theories can be used to understand complex societal and sustainability issues as a preparation for further studies and the independent thesis work. The course provides students with an understanding for how theories can be put to use in scientific work within sustainable development.
Entry Requirements
Course facts
HU0006, Social science theories in sustainable 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
Sustainable 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 aim of this course is to give the students knowledge of how social science theories can be used to understand complex society and sustainability issues as a preparation for further studies and the independent thesis work. The course provides students with an understanding for how theories can be put to use in scientific work within sustainable development.
After completing the course, the student should be able to:
- describe and explain different scientific theoretical perspectives
- describe the main features of social science research history
- describe, problematize and use common social science theories within sustainable development
- understand and use important theoretical concepts including structure, agency, power, gender and class
- discuss the consequences of choosing between different theoretical starting points for identifying research problems, formulating questions and interpreting empirical material in sustainable development.
Content
Thematic content
The students practice using and problematizing social science theories to explain specific situations and phenomena, as well as connecting empirical material to theoretical explanatory models. The focus is on understanding and being able to use basic theoretical concepts such as structure, agency, power, gender and class. Students also learn to interpret different scientific theoretical perspectives in order to understand the main differences in perspective between natural science and social science research with a focus on how theories are used. By describing the main features of the history of social science research, students can understand and explain the scientific context of social issues and connect these to current sustainability problems and research in sustainable development.
Implementation
The course uses different teaching methods to promote students' learning and discussions: lectures, literature studies, seminars and exercises.
The course focuses on the following general competencies: critical thinking, problem solving, oral communication, and written communication.
The course includes mandatory attendance at seminars.
Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course
Approved written assignments and approved participation in mandatory seminars.
Responsible Department/Equivalent
Department of Urban and Rural Development
Supplementary information
Included in program
- Politices kandidat - hållbar utveckling
Module set
| Title | Credits | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Single module | 15.0 | 0001 |