Monthly Subscription Starting at AED 99 + VAT
- Level Foundation
- Duration 5 hours
- Course by Erasmus University Rotterdam
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Offered by
About
From William Harvey discovering the circulation of blood to Albert Einstein developing the theory of relativity: almost all scientific research starts from something odd and unexpected that hasn't been explained yet, and, subsequently, the scientist creatively imagining possible explanations for it, formulating hypotheses. However, the problem with formulating hypotheses is the "theory-ladenness of observation": ones expectations and background theories curtail and determine what one observes. The best way to reduce the negative consequences of theory-ladenness of observation as much as possible, is not by adopting the highest methodological standards, but by continuing to think outside the box throughout the problem solving process, by tirelessly, creatively imagining alternative explanations and hypotheses. In this learning experience you will be turned upside down by philosopher Tim de Mey, who will challenge you to think outside of your comfort zone. You will be challenged to reflect critically and creatively on what triggers your research, i.e., what is driving the scientist in you. Tim will show you how openness to and interaction with other disciplines generates new ideas, and how important it is that scientists, besides the possibilities of their own discipline, are also aware of its (and there) limitations. Take this challenge and you will construct the perfect out-of-the-box research question that will tease the Mind of the Universe scientists to explore even better answers in their research. This online learning experience is a spin-off of The Mind of the Universe documentary series created by the Dutch broadcasting company VPRO and professor Robbert Dijkgraaf, Princeton University. A number of universities in the Netherlands have used the open source material of the documentary series as a starting point to create similar experiences.Modules
Welcome to the course!
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1
Readings
1
Readings
- Complete our survey
The scientist in you
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2
Videos
2
Videos
- Boggling the imagination
- Assignment 1a: get inspired by the research questions of the Mind of the Universe-scientists
Turning wonder into research
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1
Readings
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1
Discussion
1
Discussions
- Assignment 1b: From wonder to a research question
1
Readings
- A journal of your thoughts
An open mind
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2
Videos
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1
Discussion
1
Discussions
- Assignment 2b: How can you keep your mind open?
2
Videos
- Keep your mind open
- Assignment 2a: How do the Mind of the Universe scientists keep their mind open?
Critical, creative reasoning
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2
Videos
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1
Readings
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2
Discussion
2
Discussions
- What's the solution?
- Explain your thinking steps
2
Videos
- The Bridge Riddle
- Solution to the Bridge Riddle
1
Readings
- Solving riddles: Use your critical, creative thinking skills!
From mind to mind
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2
Videos
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1
Discussion
1
Discussions
- Assignment 3a: The role of interdisciplinarity
2
Videos
- Interdisciplinarity
- Assignment 3a: The Mind of the Universe-scientists and the role of interdisciplinarity
An interdisciplinary team
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1
Discussion
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1
Plugin
1
Discussions
- Assignment 3b: Become a member of an interdisciplinary team
What's YOUR question?
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1
PeerReview
1
Peer Review
- Upload your research question
Wrapping up
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1
Videos
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2
Readings
1
Videos
- Congratulations!
2
Readings
- Check out the other Mind of the Universe Learning experiences
- Complete our survey
Pitch to a scientist
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1
PeerReview
1
Peer Review
- Pitch your research question
Auto Summary
Discover the scientific world with "Mind of the Universe: Science in Progress," a foundational course in Health & Fitness led by philosopher Tim de Mey. This 300-minute Coursera course emphasizes creative hypothesis formulation and critical thinking, challenging you to explore beyond conventional boundaries. Suitable for all learners, subscription options include Starter and Professional tiers. Join now and ignite your scientific curiosity!
Tim De Mey