The case method as a tool for the studying of the discipline "The philosophy of science and technology" (from the experience of the teaching to the master's students)

Abstract

The use of the active teaching methodsduring the practical classes in the discipline is the condition for its effective study. One of them is a case method or a method of the analyzing a specific situation (a case). This method of the teaching can be effectively used in the study of the topic "The ethics of the scientific and technical researches". The students organized in a small group are offered a description of a specific situation (a case), after which they must independently analyze the essence of a problem and reasonably offerthe specific ways to solve it. For example, the students are asked to study the following situation: “A research protocol for the study a drug … requires… in order to determine its toxic effects. The postgraduate M ... really wants to finish his work as soon as possible… That's why he introduced the drug in ..., but he didn't do all the tests. Therefore, postgraduate M decides…». The students must analyze the proposed situation. Gradually, through the discussion and the application to its analysis of the principles of modern research ethics, they conclude that postgraduate M acted unethically in thecollecting data because he violated such norms as: … The students can be offered to analyze the several situations (the cases) in a practical lesson in order to understand the depth and scale of ethical problems and dilemmas that may arise in the process of scientific and technical researches. The case method promotes the most effective development of students' abilities, the formation of skills of independent and critical thinking,intelligence,professional competencies and ability to rebuild in a rapidly changing society.