210128 SE M11: FOP Research Practice (2023W)
Science Skepticism
Continuous assessment of course work
Labels
ON-SITE
Eine Anmeldung über u:space innerhalb der Anmeldephase ist erforderlich! Eine nachträgliche Anmeldung ist NICHT möglich.
Studierende, die der ersten Einheit unentschuldigt fernbleiben, verlieren ihren Platz in der Lehrveranstaltung.Achten Sie auf die Einhaltung der Standards guter wissenschaftlicher Praxis und die korrekte Anwendung der Techniken wissenschaftlichen Arbeitens und Schreibens.
Plagiierte und erschlichene Teilleistungen führen zur Nichtbewertung der Lehrveranstaltung (Eintragung eines 'X' im Sammelzeugnis).
Die Lehrveranstaltungsleitung kann Studierende zu einem notenrelevanten Gespräch über erbrachte Teilleistungen ein
Studierende, die der ersten Einheit unentschuldigt fernbleiben, verlieren ihren Platz in der Lehrveranstaltung.Achten Sie auf die Einhaltung der Standards guter wissenschaftlicher Praxis und die korrekte Anwendung der Techniken wissenschaftlichen Arbeitens und Schreibens.
Plagiierte und erschlichene Teilleistungen führen zur Nichtbewertung der Lehrveranstaltung (Eintragung eines 'X' im Sammelzeugnis).
Die Lehrveranstaltungsleitung kann Studierende zu einem notenrelevanten Gespräch über erbrachte Teilleistungen ein
Registration/Deregistration
Note: The time of your registration within the registration period has no effect on the allocation of places (no first come, first served).
- Registration is open from We 06.09.2023 08:00 to We 20.09.2023 08:00
- Registration is open from Fr 22.09.2023 08:00 to We 27.09.2023 08:00
- Deregistration possible until Fr 20.10.2023 23:59
Details
max. 35 participants
Language: English
Lecturers
Classes (iCal) - next class is marked with N
Thursday
05.10.
16:45 - 20:00
Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
Thursday
12.10.
16:45 - 20:00
Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
Thursday
19.10.
16:45 - 20:00
Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
Thursday
09.11.
16:45 - 20:00
Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
Thursday
16.11.
16:45 - 20:00
Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
Thursday
23.11.
16:45 - 20:00
Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
Thursday
30.11.
16:45 - 20:00
Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
Thursday
07.12.
16:45 - 20:00
Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
Thursday
14.12.
16:45 - 20:00
Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
Thursday
11.01.
16:45 - 20:00
Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
Thursday
18.01.
16:45 - 20:00
Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
Thursday
25.01.
16:45 - 20:00
Hörsaal 3 (H3), NIG 2. Stock
Information
Aims, contents and method of the course
Science skepticism has recently emerged as a prominent phenomenon in contentious debates, particularly concerning those on health-related issues, climate change, and genetic engineering. In response, this seminar aims to thoroughly explore the concept, causes, and consequences of various manifestations of science skepticism.The first part of the course delves into the conceptual, theoretical, and normative foundations. We address essential questions such as: What is science skepticism? How does it differ from 'scientific skepticism'? And, when is science skepticism a problem?Continuing our investigation, we embark on a comprehensive exploration of various forms of science skepticism, analyzing a diverse array of real-world examples and case studies as well as comparative work. Our goal is to identify common patterns among skeptics and discern differences between various types of skeptics.In this context, we will devote special attention to the intricate relationships between science and other spheres, such as the media, private companies and politics. We will discuss, in particular, how politics and science should and do interact within in the context of modern liberal democracies and examine the potential problems that may arise in this field of tension.Moreover, we will closely examine specific aspects of the psychology underlying science skepticism. Themes covered include the role of cognitive and affective factors, such as scientific literacy, spirituality, and political ideology.Ultimately, we seek to identify strategies for (re-)establishing faith in scientific expertise over the short-, medium-, and long-term. Most notably, we will evaluate the potential of engaging in dialogue with skeptics and what we at universities can do to foster trust in science.Through a mix of input lectures by the instructor as well as invited guests, critical in-class discussions, collaborative group exercises, and individual homework, participants will acquire a profound understanding of science skepticism and its diverse manifestations. The course will also focus on enhancing participants' methodological skills, with a special emphasis on methods of data collection and analysis in a mixed-methods framework, and enable and encourage them ‘to do their own research’.Based on their comprehensive knowledge and strengthened skillset, participants by the end of the course will be equipped to contribute to rational democratic discourse and promoting well-informed decision-making in various spheres of public life.
Assessment and permitted materials
Assessment will be based on the following the assignments:
• Active participation (10%)
• Reading quizzes (15%)
• Research outline (15%)
• Data collection/analysis (20%)
• Seminar paper (40%)Participants will need to collect and/or analyze their own data for their seminar paper. As this course carries 12 ECTS credits, it is essential to allocate ample time for data collection and analysis, as this will necessitate individual preparation and work beyond classroom hours. Please be mindful of the additional commitment required to successfully complete the course and make the most of the learning experience.Teamwork in the process of data collection/analysis and writing the seminar paper is permitted as the pooling of skills and knowledge can often facilitate a more comprehensive and insightful exploration of the subject matter. Please ensure, however, to document and specify the individual contributions of each group member and submit this documentation alongside the final paper to ensure fairness and transparency in the assessment of collaborative work.
• Active participation (10%)
• Reading quizzes (15%)
• Research outline (15%)
• Data collection/analysis (20%)
• Seminar paper (40%)Participants will need to collect and/or analyze their own data for their seminar paper. As this course carries 12 ECTS credits, it is essential to allocate ample time for data collection and analysis, as this will necessitate individual preparation and work beyond classroom hours. Please be mindful of the additional commitment required to successfully complete the course and make the most of the learning experience.Teamwork in the process of data collection/analysis and writing the seminar paper is permitted as the pooling of skills and knowledge can often facilitate a more comprehensive and insightful exploration of the subject matter. Please ensure, however, to document and specify the individual contributions of each group member and submit this documentation alongside the final paper to ensure fairness and transparency in the assessment of collaborative work.
Minimum requirements and assessment criteria
Attendance at the first session is necessary as students who miss the initial session are at risk of being deregistered from the course to accommodate those on the waiting list.Apart from that, students are expected to attend at least 80% of all sessions and actively engage in all course activities.
It is strongly recommended to attend the instructor's office hours at least once during the course. This opportunity allows students to discuss their research outline and data strategy, gaining valuable feedback and guidance.The submission of the seminar paper is mandatory. The paper will be evaluated based on the relevance of the research question, the clarity of the argument, the validity of the methods, the internal structure, and the quality of writing.Plagiarism, inauthentic, or otherwise fraudulent work is strictly prohibited. Any such instances will result in the course not being assessed, indicated as an 'X' on the transcript. The plagiarism detection software 'Turnitin' will be utilized to ensure academic integrity. If necessary, the instructor may invite students to a ‘grade-relevant conversation’ about their submitted work.
It is strongly recommended to attend the instructor's office hours at least once during the course. This opportunity allows students to discuss their research outline and data strategy, gaining valuable feedback and guidance.The submission of the seminar paper is mandatory. The paper will be evaluated based on the relevance of the research question, the clarity of the argument, the validity of the methods, the internal structure, and the quality of writing.Plagiarism, inauthentic, or otherwise fraudulent work is strictly prohibited. Any such instances will result in the course not being assessed, indicated as an 'X' on the transcript. The plagiarism detection software 'Turnitin' will be utilized to ensure academic integrity. If necessary, the instructor may invite students to a ‘grade-relevant conversation’ about their submitted work.
Examination topics
Students will be assessed based on their depth of knowledge and understanding of the course subject, their proficiency in methodological skills, and their overall ability to independently conduct and effectively present their research findings in writing.
Reading list
To be announced.
Association in the course directory
Last modified: Th 24.08.2023 15:27