SIW4220 Qualitative Methods and Research Design Course description

This course is dedicated to qualitative research tools and analysis. We give particular attention to methodological reflection.

We try out several methods of gathering information on one research question. The "data" will then be used when trying out different modes of analysis. We want the students to pay special attention to the links between a research question and a research design.

None.

A student who has completed his or her qualification has the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge and skills:

Knowledge

The student has

• thorough knowledge of the research process
• advanced knowledge of qualitative research designs: their appropriate use as well as strengths and limitations
• advanced conceptual tools to be applied in discussing, evaluating, and exploring social phenomena.

Skills

The student can

• relate research processes to scientific theory and ethical principles
• apply research methods in a reflective manner and appropriately choose methods that are relevant for different kinds of research questions
• use relevant methods for producing, analysing and interpreting diverse types of empirical data (e.g. interviews, case-studies and visual data)
• evaluate research based on qualitative methodologies in terms of methodological quality and appropriateness

The course consists of lectures and study groups.

For every lecture, there are seminars where study groups work with practical exercises and have group discussions. These seminars will be supervised on demand.

Students must take part in at least three practical exercises and contribute to their groups reflection at the end of the course. The coursework requirement is a 15 minute oral presentation, presented by the group. The presentation can be anything from a presentation of results from that groups work, to presenting the most interesting group discussion or reflection on course related topics.

Attendance during group presentation is mandatory, and presentations must be approved by the course lecturer. Students who are not present or that have not provided input to the group, and presentations that are not approved, will have to submit an alternative qualification to be able to sit for the examination.

Lack of an approved course work requirement will disqualify the student from taking part in the final examination.

The student's learning outcome will be assessed on the basis of an individual four-hour written school examination.

Students may use a spelling dictionary, as well as a bilingual dictionary.

A grade scale A-F.

This course focus on quantitative research tools, data collection and analysis. We give particular attention to methodological reflection, regression analysis, and the links between research questions and research design. The course thus connects with the thesis preparation seminar, the master's thesis design proposal and the master's thesis work process.

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