SV0087, Science Theory and Method, 7.5 Hp
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Syllabus

Finalized by: Ordförande för programnämnden för utbildning inom skog (PN-S), 2025-12-18
Valid from : Autumn semester 2026 (2026-08-31)

Level

First cycle (G1N)

Main field of study

Forestry Science

Grading Scale

5 / 4 / 3 / U

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 provide a basic understanding of scientific theory, method and interpretation of data and provide practical skills in numerical analysis.

After completing the course, the student should be able to:

• give an account of scientific theoretical traditions and concepts and describe scientific approaches and ethical aspects of science
• describe qualitative and quantitative methods for data collection and analysis and describe the pros and cons of each method and explain when each method is appropriate
• carry out a literature search and explain the difference between different types of literature
• summarize results and critically review basic statistics in scientific articles
• verbally argue and conduct scientific reasoning
• write a popular science text based on a scientific article
• explain basic statistical terminology
• perform basic calculations in probability theory
• apply descriptive statistics, confidence intervals and hypothesis testing
• interpret obtained statistical results and put them in context

Content

The course deals with basic scientific theory, ethics and scientific methods and provides an understanding of scientific approaches and the difference between science and pseudoscience. Gender perspectives on research and science are addressed. During the course, skills in argumentation and scientific reasoning are practised. Research processes are described and certain individual elements, including literature search, compilation and statistical analysis, are practiced. Qualitative and quantitative methods, including basic statistical methods, with applications in forest science and biology are addressed.

The course is completed with lectures, seminars and practical exercises. Seminars and some lectures are mandatory.

Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course

Approved written examination Completed mandatory elements

•  If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.
• The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.
• If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and who have not yet passed the course.
• For the assessment of an independent project (degree project), the examiner may also allow a student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Responsible Department/Equivalent

Department of Wildlife, Fish, & Environmental Studies

Supplementary information

Included in program

• Forest Science (BSc)

Module set

Title	Credits	Code
Science Theory	2.0	0301
Statistics	2.0	0302
Assignment	3.5	0303

Other Information

• The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.
• If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.