MEST4520 Research Theory and Method 2 Course description

This course is a continuation of Research Theory and Method 1 and has a particular focus on methods relevant to the aesthetic disciplines. The course emphasises the student analysing, assessing and using theoretical and practical elements in a research, art and/or design process. The course involves choosing the focus of the master's degree project and developing the research question, as well as starting the development of a research design, which is continued in the subject Project Development and Research Design in the third semester.

The course MEST4510 or similar competence

None.

Knowledge

The student:

• has in-depth knowledge of a range of relevant theory of science perspectives in a limited aesthetic field

• can analyse and evaluate the theoretical and practical elements of the testing and research process

• has knowledge of and can take a critical approach to the use of different sources and ethical considerations in testing, creative practice and research processes

Skills

The student

• can independently apply select theory of science and knowledge of methodology that is relevant to a limited aesthetic field
• can assess and discuss research methodology choices in relation to the objective and research question
• can assess and apply various sources and research ethical norms relating to the research process

General competence

The student

• can work independently on developing a research question in combination with various relevant methods
• can apply and communicate their knowledge using research methodology argumentation
• can use knowledge and skills in the aesthetic fields to contribute to new ideas and innovation processes

Teaching methods vary between lectures and various student-active learning methods. Students must actively participate in teaching and group work in addition to the scheduled teaching sessions.  The master’s programme is based on individual study with participation in groups, lectures and thematic workshops. Emphasis is placed on both theoretical and practical work as forms of study. During the course, the student shall have a particular focus on working actively with a selection of research methods that may be relevant for their future master's thesis.

Teaching is in English when this course is included in the international semester.

The following coursework is compulsory and must be approved before the student can take the exam:

· Minimum 80% attendance at compulsory teaching activities and seminars

The exam consists of two parts:

Part 1) Individual oral presentation of approx. 10-15 minutes.

Part 2) Individual written documentation, 1500-2500 words.

Both parts are assessed together and a single overall grade is given.All parts must be passed in order for the course to be passed.

The result of the written part of the exam can be appealed. The result of the oral part of the exam cannot be appealed. If the grade is changed after the appeal process, a new oral presentation will be held to determine the final grade.

The exam can be submitted in English or Norwegian.

Further information about these tasks will be provided in the exam tasks and in the teaching.

All aids are permitted.

Pass/fail.

To internal sensors. External sensor is used regularly.

The course has a 5-credit overlap with MEST4313.