AK123X Degree Project in History of Science, Technology and Environment, First Cycle 15.0 credits

The course mainly consists of an independent project work that results in an academic paper. The work should be based on a specified scientific issue that through application of a historical perspective on technology, science and environment has potential to contribute to new understanding how human societies and cultures are changed over time. Focus should lie on the relation between technology, science and/or environment one side and the social progress on the other. The essay can treat historical events and processes of change both in close and in more remote past time. Geographically, the essay can treat both the Swedish society and other societies in the world.

The degree project usually includes studies of relevant theoretical literature and empirical material in the form of archival materials, printed sources, interviews and/or material relics. Large independence and initiative are assumed. Issue, theory selections, choices of empirical material and layout of the essay are designed in close cooperation with the supervisor. The Division of History of Science, Technology and Environment offer continuous, individual supervision under the degree project time from formulation of the research issue to completion of the work. In the final stage, the Division organise a seminar where the work is discussed before it is completed and accepted.

After completed degree project, the student should be able to:

1. demonstrate knowledge of the disciplinary foundation of the chosen subject area and best practices, knowledge of current research and development

2. holistically, critically and systematically search, collect and integrate knowledge, and identify the need for further knowledge

3. formulate, assess and handle problems and critically discuss issues

4. plan and carry out tasks within given time frames with suitable methods, and evaluate this work

5. design and handle products, processes, methods, systems or technical solutions, taking into consideration people's abilities and needs, and society's aim for economically, socially and ecologically sustainable development

6. working with different groups demonstrate the ability to orally and in writing account for and discuss information, problems and solutions

7. show the ability to make judgements considering relevant scientific, social and ethical aspects

8. work independently as an engineer

At least 120 credits should be completed, before the degree project may be started (apply engineering).

In addition, basic knowledge within the field of history of science, technology and environment is required. This knowledge can have been acquired via one or several of the courses that are given at the Division or in a different way.

It is the examiner who makes sure that the student has the specialisation that is required and that the student has completed the main part of the studies before the degree project is started.

Depending on the topic, an individual reading list might be designed.

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

• XUPP - Examination Assignment, 15.0 credits, grading scale: P, F

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

The degree project can be written in Swedish or English.

Passed essay and completed defence of the essay at seminar.

Per Högselius

• All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
• In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
• In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.