MSL4200 Research Methods and Theory of Science Course description

The students must acquire the knowledge and skills required to plan and execute the empirical part of the master's thesis in public management. The course provides an overview of the different phases of a research process and raises fundamental issues relating to theory of science. Students should also be able to relate to international research.

Language of instruction is Norwegian.

Basic knowledge of research method and theory of science corresponding to bachelor level.

None

On successful completion of the course, the student shall have the following knowledge, skills and competence:

Knowledge

The student has

• in-depth knowledge of key scientific theoretical traditions and positions
• in-depth knowledge of various qualitative and quantitative research designs
• in-depth knowledge of various methods for collecting and analyzing qualitative research data
• in-depth knowledge of various methods for collecting and analyzing quantitative research data, including multivariate methods such as multiple regression analysis, logistic regression analysis and factor analysis
• in-depth knowledge of assessing data's relevance and reliability

Skills

The student can

• formulate research questions and relate them to the choice of research methods
• analyze qualitative and quantitative data to answer research questions
• apply relevant theory of science, other theory and methods in the master thesis
• use qualitative and quantitative analyses, and interpret the results of these
• apply relevant multivariate analysis methods and interpret the results of these
• carry out an independent, limited research project in the form of a master thesis under supervision and in accordance with current research ethical norms

General competence

The student can

• assess ethical issues that may arise in research and application of research results
• identify and assess relevant issues related to theory of science and research
• interpret and communicate results from empirical surveys
• apply knowledge and skills in the collection and analysis of relevant data sources
• assess the quality of current research
• communicate about methodological social science issues with specialists and to the general public

The teaching will take place as lectures, discussions, group work and seminars.

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

• Coursework 1: The first coursework requirement is an oral presentation with a duration of 10-15 minutes of a theory of science text chosen in consultation with the lecturer. If the student is not able to give an oral presentation, a written 3-4 pages presentation can be submitted and approved by the lecturer instead.
• Coursework 2: Qualitative research method. Students will deliver a paper with the scope of 5-6 pages. The assignment can be written individually or in pairs on agreement with the lecturer.
• Coursework 3: Quantitative research method. Students will deliver a paper with the scope of 5-6 pages. The assignment can be written individually or in pairs on agreement with the lecturer.

The purpose of the coursework requirements is to provide students with practice in reflecting on the significance of philosophy of science for research and the practical application of qualitative and quantitative research methods.

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 the opportunity to submit an improved version by the given deadline.

The exam in the course is a supervised written exam of four hours.

No aids are permitted.

Grade scale A-F

The exam papers are assessed by one internal and one external examiner.

At least 25% of the exam papers will be assessed by two examiners. The grades awarded for the papers assessed by two examiners form the basis for determining the level for all the exam papers.

Per Arne Tufte