MAPSD4310 Research Methods in Mental Health Care Course description

The course covers theories of science, qualitative and quantitative research methods and research design that are relevant for mental health, mental disorders and the field of mental health care. The course covers all steps in the research process, formulation of research questions, ethical reflection and principles for scientific work. The course forms the basis for the master's thesis and is therefore not a course in which exemption and recognition can be granted.

Admission to the programme.

After completing the course, the student is expected to have achieved the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and competence:

Knowledge

The student has

• advanced knowledge of the importance of theory of science positions to research on mental health, mental disorders and mental health care
• knowledge about theoretical, methodical and practical challenges in scientific work
• advanced knowledge about the connection between theory of science and choice of methods within mental health care
• in-depth knowledge of the various steps in the research process/ scientific work
• in-depth knowledge about ethical principles in scientific work

Skills

The student is capable of

• taking a reflective and critical approach to theory of science and understanding the link between views of knowledge and methods
• applying theory of science and research methods based on research issues and research questions
• analysing and interpreting empirical material
• preparing research questions and project descriptions

Competence

The student is capable of

• applying theory of science in the development of design, methodology, analysis and interpretation
• understanding theory of science and how different perspectives on humanity, views of knowledge and values govern the research
• applying research methods in an independent and critical manner
• assessing and taking a critical approach to research in the mental health care field
• communicating scientific knowledge in an independent and critical manner

Lectures, group work, seminars and self-study.

The syllabus amounts to approx. 800 pages.

The following must have been completed and approved in order for a student to be permitted to take the exam:

Project description outline

• individual or in groups of two students

• the outline should be presented at a seminar with opponents with an opportunity to discuss and make changes before the final submission

• Scope: 1,000 words (+/– 20%)

Attendance in compulsory activities

• of 80% in study groups and seminars

Project description

• individual or in groups of two students

• Scope: 2,000 words (+/- 20%)

• Governs the master’s thesis with an emphasis on the methodology section

All aids are permitted, as long as the rules for source referencing are complied with.

Grade scale A-F.

All answer papers are assessed by two examiners. At least 20% per cent of the exam papers will be assessed by an external examiner. The external examiner's assessment shall benefit all the students.

MAPSD4300 and MAPS4310 overlap 100%.