Research Seminar

Recommended Prerequisites

Students must have completed all the other curricular units that are part of the PhD program.

Teaching Methods

The curricular unit is organized in a flexible way as to adapt to the emerging thematic and problematic of the different research projects presented by students.

The sessions are composed of two types of analytic and discussion exercises: (i) the individual presentation of the research project, followed by an open discussion. (ii) methodological discussion of analytic tools and graphical representation.

The assessment of knowledge is based on the presence of students and continuous regime evaluation.

Learning Outcomes

This curricular unitaims for students to deepen the knowledge about the process of thesis elaboration and thesis writing techniques, based in the practice and analysis of inter-textuality. The aim is also to encourage the practice of cross reading, analysis and discussion of scientific texts candidates must prepare at the end of the semester (theses’ projects). Finally, the ability for oral presentation and argumentation before specialized audiences is also exercised.

Among the skills to acquire we highlight: a) the ability to critically read and interpret the reference bibliography in risk sciences; b) the analysis of technical and cartographic instruments used in risk studies and their epistemological underlying presuppositions; c) the ability for personal reflexion and proposing of innovative approaches; d) the ability for theoretical reflexion and conceptual incorporation.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

Athough there is some flexibility, to adapt to students’ interests and scientific backgrounds, the mandatory modules are:

- the structure of a thesis;

- the critical review of bibliography;

- conceptual and methodological analysis;

- the role and challenges of cartography;

- quantitative and qualitative methods and their epistemological presuppositions;

- analytical innovation in science and scientific paradigms.

Head Lecturer(s)

José Manuel Oliveira Mendes

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Research work: 100.0%

Bibliography

Kreps, Gary et al. (2006), Facing Hazards and Disasters: Understanding Human Dimensions. New York: The National Academies Press.

Ayala-Carcedo, Francisco; Cantos, Jorge (2002), Riesgos naturales. Barcelona: Ariel.

Denscombe, Martyn (2008) The Good Research Guide for small-scale social research projects. Maidenhead: Open University Press.

Oliver, Paul, 2013, Writing your Thesis. Londres, Sage (3ª edição/3^rd Edition).