Theory and methodology of science in odontology, 15 credits

A Bachelor’s degree or a professional degree equivalent to a Swedish Bachelor's degree of at least 180  credits in within dentistry, odontological prophylaxis or dental technology. And proficiency in Swedish and English equivalent to Swedish B/Swedish 3 and English A/English
 

The major aim of the course is that the student should obtain necessary comprehension within the theory of knowledge and research methodology to be able to carry out a degree project within the field of dentistry, odontolocical prophylaxis or dental technology for second-cycle studies. The course intends to give the student the possibility to take part of and participate in research and development with an advanced scientific approach, with the opportunity to perform independent analysis, reflection and critical assessment.

The student should on completion of the course independently be able to:

• Explain basic scholarship- and epistemological concepts and relate these to their own field of knowledge within dental research.
• Carry out information retrieval in relevant scientific medical databases and be able to utilise their specific properties, be able to choose appropriate information retrieval strategies and be able to account for their choice of strategy.
• Interpret, review and determine the scientifica value of research articles mainly within the field dentistry critically.
• Analyze and apply research-ethical basic principles and show an ability to make research-ethical assessments to their own scientific issues.
• Formulate an ethical application concerning a research project directed to the research-ethical committee.
• Apply and interpret basic principles of statistical analytical methods.
• Design, plan, write and present a research plan within a limited field.
• Give a general description of the current research within their dental subject area and be able to propose appropriate collaborative projects with patient-close care to stimulate transnational research.

The course covers:

• Theory of Science
• Research methodology
• Research ethics
• Research design
• Literature search and critical review of scientific articles
• Statistical analytical methods

The course contains varying working methods consisting of lectures, demonstrations, journal clubs, seminars and student-activating group work that stimulates the cooperation between dentists, dental hygienists and dental technicians.

The course is a modified distance education that starts with one introduction week of overview of the theoretical components. Remaining parts of the course are based on self-study combined with compulsory sessions once per month, for two to three days.

Compulsory attendance applies to all lectures, seminars and presentations. For possible absence, complementary assignments by agreement with the course administration are made.

Oral and written presentations at seminars and written assignments in the form of a minor essay, ethical application and research plan. In the examination, a review of one other's written assignment is also required.

Students who do not pass after the regular examination session/presentation session can participate in further five examination sessions. If the student has failed six examinations/tests, no more examinations are offered. An examination for which the student is registered but not participated in, will not be regarded as an examination.

Examination will be provided during a time of two years after a possible close-down of the course.

Language of instruction: Swedish