Education MA, Independent Work II, 15 credits

Aim

The course aims for the student to acquire an advanced familiarity with critically evaluating, analyzing, and carrying out an independent scientific study relevant to practical educational work.

Course objectives

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

• demonstrate knowledge and understanding within the main field of the programme, including broad knowledge of the field as well as substantially advanced knowledge in certain areas, and an in‑depth insight into current research and development work,
• demonstrate advanced methodological knowledge within the main field of the programme,
• demonstrate the ability to critically and systematically integrate knowledge and to analyze, assess, and manage complex phenomena, issues, and situations, even with limited information,
• demonstrate the ability to critically, independently, and creatively identify and formulate questions, to plan and, using appropriate methods, carry out qualified tasks within given time frames, thereby contributing to knowledge development, and to evaluate this work,
• demonstrate the ability to clearly present and discuss, both orally and in writing and in national as well as international contexts, their conclusions and the knowledge and arguments on which these are based, in dialogue with different groups,
• demonstrate the skills required to participate in research and development work, or to independently work in other qualified professional contexts,
• demonstrate the ability to make assessments within the main field of the programme with regard to relevant scientific, societal, and ethical aspects, and show awareness of ethical aspects of research and development work,
• demonstrate insight into the possibilities and limitations of science, its role in society, and people’s responsibility for how it is used,
• demonstrate the ability to identify their need for further knowledge and to take responsibility for their ongoing learning.

Content

The course includes the planning and completion of an independent scientific project. In their work, the student shall apply the various stages of the research process, from formulating a problem to producing the final report. The independent project is presented in the form of a written report, as well as through an oral presentation and defence of the work. In addition, the course includes serving as an opponent on another student’s independent project.

Entry requirements

A completed degree of at least 180 credits, including an independent project (degree project) of 15 credits, in the main field of education (pedagogy) or an equivalent field, or a completed teacher education degree of at least 180 credits with an independent project (degree project) of 15 credits, as well as at least 15 credits in research methodology at the second‑cycle level. In addition, proficiency in Swedish and English is required, corresponding to the general entry requirements for first‑cycle higher education in Sweden.

Selection rules and procedures

The selection process is in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance and the local order of admission.

Teaching form

The teaching and study formats aim to promote active learning and shared responsibility for achieving the intended outcomes of the course and the programme as a whole.

The instruction is delivered digitally in the form of lectures, seminars, group exercises, supervision, and self‑study. The course includes compulsory components and examinations that require attendance. Teaching may be conducted in English and may make use of various forms of communication.

Examination form

3001: Independent Project – Degree Project, 15 Credits
Grade scale: Three-grade scale

A written independent project, which is presented at a seminar that includes an opponent.

The student is examined individually, both in writing and orally, in relation to the learning outcomes. The grade is based on the independent project, the oral presentation, and the opposition on another student’s independent project. The student must actively participate in other presentations of independent projects.

If the student has a decision from the coordinator at Mid Sweden University regarding educational support due to a disability, the examiner has the right to provide an adapted form of examination.

Link to subject‑specific grading criteria: www.miun.se/betygskriterier

Examination restrictions

The student may be examined at one regular examination session and at one re‑examination session held shortly thereafter. If the result is a fail, an additional examination opportunity is provided within one year. These examination opportunities shall be based on the same course literature.

Grading system

Three-grade scale

Other information

The course may not be included in a degree together with the course code PE043A.

Course certificates, credit transfers, appeals, etc., are regulated by the Higher Education Ordinance.