RESA4102 – Theory and Method in the Study of Religion, Society and Diversity

Course content

The course will give an introduction to theory and method in the study of religion. In particular, the course emphasise the use of theory and method in the context of societies that are marked by human diversity. Key concepts such as “religion”, “situatedness” and “embodiment” are explored. In particular, the course introduces students to hermeneutics, discourse analysis and feminist theory as relevant approaches to the study of religion in society. The course also gives students an introduction to important research methods in the field of religion, with a particular focus on interviews, participant observation and the ethics of fieldwork.

Learning outcome

? Knowledge of different theoretical and methodological approaches in the study of religion, society and diversity 
? Ability to make informed choices concerning the development of research design for MA thesis 
? Ability to critically discuss the relationship between theory and method 
? Understand the use of theory and method in the production of knowledge about religion and in the analysis of data

Admission

Students who are admitted to study programmes at UiO must each semester register which courses and exams they wish to sign up for in Studentweb.

If you are not already enrolled as a student at UiO, please see our information about admission requirements and procedures.

Teaching

Mandatory requirements:

The students will in groups of 2-3 prepare a short presentation and a response based on critical reflections over a part of the syllabus. The presentation is to take place during class.

Examination

The examination of the course consists of a portfolio submission. The portfolio must include two texts: One theme based paper, 4500 words and one syllabus-based essay, 1500 words.
In the evaluation, the syllabus-based paper count 25% and the theme essay 75% of the final grading.

Submit assignments in Inspera

You submit your assignment in the digital examination system Inspera. Read about how to submit your assignment.

Use of sources and citation

You should familiarize yourself with the rules that apply to the use of sources and citations. If you violate the rules, you may be suspected of cheating/attempted cheating.

Language of examination

You may write your examination paper in Norwegian, Swedish, Danish or English.

Grading scale

Grades are awarded on a scale from A to F, where A is the best grade and F is a fail. Read more about the grading system.

Explanations and appeals

Resit an examination

Withdrawal from an examination

It is possible to take the exam up to 3 times. If you withdraw from the exam after the deadline or during the exam, this will be counted as an examination attempt.

Special examination arrangements

Application form, deadline and requirements for special examination arrangements.

Evaluation

The course is subject to continuous evaluation. At regular intervals we also ask students to participate in a more comprehensive evaluation.

Facts about this course

Credits
10
Level
Master
Teaching
Autumn 2020

RESA4102 is offered for the last time autumn 2020. It will be replaced by a new course autumn 2021.

Examination
Every autumn
Teaching language
English