MASYD4050 Theory of Science and Research Methods Course description

Professional practice builds on the assessment and application of research, and competence from the development of the field and clinical experience. This requires that you, in your professional practice, are able to read, understand and apply research literature and see this in the context of clinical experience and professional development. Theory of science makes up an important part of the basis for understanding scientific activity. Through this part of the course, we want to stimulate an inquisitive and critical approach to knowledge development and with the make the students better equipped to critically assess which basis professional decisions are made. The course Theory of Science and Research Methods also provides an overview of the most used methods in qualitative and quantitative research, as well as on central research ethics principles. Insight into different methods means that you, as a professional practitioner, can identify research literature that is suitable for answering various academic questions.

https://oslomet.instructure.com/courses/8236

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 in-depth knowledge of the research process
• has in-depth knowledge of the most commonly used methods in qualitative and quantitative approaches to research
• has in-depth knowledge of the relationship between theory of science and research methods

Skills

The student is capable of

• planning the collection of qualitative and/or quantitative data
• analysing and interpreting quantitative data, such as descriptive tables and figures
• analysing and interpreting qualitative data, such as different kinds of text material
• identifying and elucidating research ethics issues in their own projects

Competence

The student is capable of

• applying knowledge and skills through critical analysis and reasoning to different types of knowledge, values and perspectives on humanity
• analysing relevant discipline-related, professional and research ethics issues and proposing solutions
• disseminating academic and research results of relevance to the health and social services

Lectures, group work, seminars with presentations and self-study.

In order to take the exam, the coursework requirement must be approved.

Group assignment

• The assignment is normally written in groups of 3-6 students
• Scope: 2,000 words (+/- 10 %)
• The syllabus must be used in the assignment
• Oral presentation in groups
• The students receive oral feedback from their fellow students and from the lecturer.

Students will be given an introduction on how to prepare and plan a research project within the framework of a qualitative study design. Students will have the opportunity to discuss potential designs related to their own master's project. Various designs are exemplified, and methods that are illuminated are observation, interview (individual and group interviews / focus groups), discourse analysis and participatory action research. The course provides an introduction to qualitative methodology, enabling students to read and understand and apply scientific articles.

Through critical evaluation of research results, the students will acquire in-depth knowledge of credibility and validity in qualitative research, as well as publication and dissemination of scientific knowledge. Analysis and interpretation of data is emphasized in the form of lectures and exercises. The research role is discussed and the importance of reflection on one's own understanding is discussed. Special research ethical challenges in the planning and implementation of qualitative studies will be highlighted.

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 in-depth knowledge of the research process and ethical challenges in qualitative studies
• is capable of using knowledge about the planning and execution of qualitative studies
• has advanced knowledge of the most commonly used analysis methods in qualitative research
• has in-depth knowledge of the strengths and weaknesses of qualitative studies

Skills

The student is capable of

• analysing qualitative data, such as different kinds of text material
• taking a critical approach to the interpretation of qualitative data
• identifying and elucidating research ethics issues in their own projects
• systematically presenting findings from qualitative studies

Competence

The student is capable of

• presenting issues of relevance to qualitative design
• disseminating qualitative academic and research results of relevance to the health and social services
• communicating ethical considerations concerning the dissemination of health research

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

MAABI4050, MASYK4050, MASYD4050, MAPO4050, MAPSD4050, ABIO6050, KREFT6050, KARD6050, VPSY6050, VPSYD6050, PSYD6050, HEL6050, BIT6000 overlap 100%.