Futures Studies/Courses

FUTURES1 How Can We Explore the Future? 6 ECTS cr
FUTURES2 Futures Research Methods 8 ECTS cr
FUTURES3 Methods Exercise Course 3 or 8 ECTS cr
FUTURES4 Changing Futures Theme 3 or 8 ECTS cr

 

Futures1: How Can We Explore the Future? This module offers an introduction to the knowledge field of futures studies. Futures research in Finland focuses on visionary knowledge regarding alternative futures and challenges included in them. Futures research offers futures-oriented information to back up decision-making in public and private sectors.

Futures2: Futures Research Methods The aim of the course is to give basic understanding of the various methodologies and methods in futures studies and how to apply these methods in practice.

Futures3: Futures Research in Practice The students will learn how to argue in a scientific manner and how to assess scientific argumentation as well as how to evaluate research. They will also learn to use the multidisciplinary point of view in research and take advantage of inter-, trans- and multidisciplinary research methods and viewpoints.

Futures4: Changing Futures Theme On this course students will learn about recent academic futures research on a specific topic such as foresight management in corporations and public organisations, scanning for the future, scenario building, tools and strategies for sustainable futures and regional foresight. Topic follows annually the topic of the international conference of Finland Futures Research Centre and Finland Futures Academy. The theme of the 2010 conference was security.