ØAMET4200 Research Methods for Social Sciences Course description

The course particularly builds on a foundation course in social science research methods at bachelor's degree level and a foundation course in statistical methodology. This is a compulsory common course in the main profile Strategy, Organisation and Leadership.

The course starts with an introduction to scientific theory and various scientific theoretical positions. The research process from A to Z is also reviewed. Formulations problems are discussed in relation to previous research, theory and method. Differences between qualitative and quantitative data are described and various applications outlined. Research ethics, literature searches and validity criteria (reability and validity) are also covered.

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After completing the course, the student should have the following overall learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The student has

• knowledge of various scientific theoretical positions
• in-depth knowledge and understanding of how the research process takes place and which different methods are used in the social sciences

Skills

The student is capable of

• formulate suitable topics and research questions
• be able to connect research questions to theory and earlier research
• choose a suited method to be able to analyse and answer the research questions
• be able to handle research ethical considerations
• plan and write a master’s thesis in strategy, organization and management under supervision

General competence

The student has

• is familiar with theory abouth knowledge and able to evaluate knowledge claims

Varied forms of teaching will be used, with a combination of lectures, guest lectures, class discussions, project assignment and student presentations. A series of exercises intended to familiarise students with the different steps involved in research work is a key element of the course. These exercises are designed to enable students to assess, plan and carry out empirical studies.

The following coursework requirements must have been approved in order for the student to take the exam:

• Coursework 1: Three written submissions of approximately 5 pages each. Each submission is written in groups of 5 to 7 students per group. All submissions must be presented in class and attendance at these presentations is compulsory. Each presentation lasts approximately 20 minutes. Written feedback on each group's submissions pointing to strengths and weaknesses will be given.

The purpose of the coursework requirement is to give students experience in planning and carrying out a research project.

All required coursework must be completed and approved by the given deadline in order for the student to take the exam. If one or more coursework requirements have not been approved, the student will be given one new opportunity to get these approved, within a given deadline.

The aim of the course is to provide the students both with the theoretical basis of cross-cultural communication and to develop their practical skills in dealing with cross-cultural encounters in the global workplace.

Language of instruction is English.

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After completing the course, the student should have the following overall learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The student

• knows various definitions of culture
• has broad knowledge about various business cultures
• has general knowledge of the main patterns of cross-cultural business behaviour
• has knowledge of various aspects of cross-cultural communication, management and interaction
• has knowledge about verbal and non-verbal communication in various cultures
• knows the most influential theories of cross-cultural communication

Skills

The student

• can deal with intercultural challenges in professional situations in the business world
• can communicate well within a professional, intercultural context
• can work well in international teams
• can interact in cross-cultural business situations while taking into account differences of business customs and behavior
• can analyze, compare and contrast different business cultures
• is able to discuss and reflect on various aspects of cultural differences
• can present and discuss business issues in an international and intercultural context

General competence

The student

• can apply his/her knowledge of cross-cultural communication and business cultures in professional situations
• can function well in most professional intercultural situations
• has developed his/her cultural sensitivity

The pedagogical approach includes:

• Lectures, group work, discussions, case work
• Independent study

Regular attendance and active participation in classroom activities are expected.

The following coursework requirements must have been approved for the student to take the exam:

• Coursework 1: An individual written assignment - application of theory to a specific case (2-3 pages)
• Coursework 2: Participation in an oral case-based negotiation class.

The purpose of these assignments is to make the students reflect on and use the syllabus actively and help them prepare for the exam in Cross-Cultural Communication.

All required coursework must be completed and approved by the given deadline for the student to take the exam. If one or more coursework requirements have not been approved, the student will be given one opportunity to submit an improved version by a given deadline.