2016/17 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue
HPSC5610M Advanced Topics in Metaphysics of Science
30 creditsClass Size: 25
Module manager: Prof Steven French
Email: s.r.d.french@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2016/17
Pre-requisite qualifications
Same as for MA programme admissions (i.e. normally a good honours degree - 2.i or higher).Module replaces
HPSC5500M Metaphysical Issues in Philosophy of ScienceThis module is not approved as an Elective
Module summary
If the module recruits three or fewer students, it will be delivered via 3 hours of supervision with the module leader (instead of the format specified below).Objectives
The module is designed:- to cover key metaphysical issues in the Philosophy of Science;
- to develop skills of analysis and expression in Philosophy of Science.
Learning outcomes
On completion of this module, students should be able:
- to demonstrate appropriately detailed knowledge of a number of central metaphysical issues in Philosophy of Science;
- to have knowledge of the central positions in the contemporary debates regarding those issues;
- to be able to engage in informed critical analysis of those positions; and
- to form a personal view on these philosophical positions.
Syllabus
The module will examine a selection of central metaphysical issues in Philosophy of Science, which may include some of the following: laws of nature, causation, chance, explanation, reduction and emergence.
Teaching methods
Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
Seminar | 11 | 2.00 | 22.00 |
Private study hours | 278.00 | ||
Total Contact hours | 22.00 | ||
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 300.00 |
Private study
- Reading for seminars (8 3/4 hours/week) = 96 hours- Reading over seminar notes (2 hours/week) = 22 hours
- Further Reading and Essay Preparation (2 x 80 hours) = 160 hours
Opportunities for Formative Feedback
Students will receive feedback- informally during the course of seminars, when the leader will respond to observations and questions;
- on assessed essays (one mid-term, one at the end of term), which will be returned with written comments within three weeks;
- informally during the module leader's office hours.
Methods of assessment
Coursework
Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
Essay | 2 x 3000 words or 1 x 6000 words | 100.00 |
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100.00 |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Reading list
The reading list is available from the Library websiteLast updated: 05/08/2016
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- Undergraduate module catalogue
- Taught Postgraduate module catalogue
- Undergraduate programme catalogue
- Taught Postgraduate programme catalogue
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