SYKP2000B Theory of Science and Research Methods Course description

On completion of the course, the candidate will have achieved the following learning outcomes:

Knowledge

The candidate

• is in the forefront of qualitative classroom research
• has in-depth knowledge of observation and interview as central research methods
• can evaluate the expediency and application of different methods and processes in classroom research (different traditions in observational methodology, interview methodology, observation design, interview design and approaches to analysing data)
• has in-depth knowledge about ethical challenges concerning classroom research
• has in-depth knowledge of validity, reliability and generalizability in qualitative classroom research
• can assess the appropriateness and application of various observation and interview methods in qualitative classroom research
• can contribute to the development of different approaches to analysing observation and interview data in the filed of classroom research
• can contribute to the development of new knowledge, new theories, methods, interpretations and forms of documentation in the field of classroom research

Skills

The candidate:

• can professionally carry out classroom observation and interviews
• can design and carry out research and academic development related to classroom observation and interviews
• can develop, create and implement different observation and interview designs at a high international level in the context of classroom research
• can challenge established knowledge and practice within classroom research

General competence

The candidate:

• can identify and establish constructive connections between theories, research methods, empirical data, analysis and findings
• can identify relevant ethical issues regarding the use of classroom observation and interviews
• can present their research with high academic integrity
• can participate in discussions around methodological benefits and challenges related to the use of observation and interviews in qualitative classroom research

Passed the course SYKP/SYKP1060 Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) in Health Care.

Lectures, seminars and workshops:

• in lectures, the focus is on theoretical and practical perspectives on observation, interviews and analysis of data in the context of classroom research
• in seminars, the candidates must be prepared to present and discuss their own research project and use of methods, and to provide feedback on other participants’ contributions
• in workshops, the candidates will receive comments on their paper from course leaders and fellow students. The paper should be linked to the candidate’s PhD-project, and focus on methodology and/or analysis of data relevant to classroom research

Preparations for the course

Students are expected to read the syllabus before the first part of the course to be able to participate actively in discussions.

Coursework requirement are:

1. 80 % attendance on the course.

2. Each participant presents orally his/her research project in a plenary seminar with focus on research methods and analysis, 10 minutes each.

The candidate writes an individual paper of 2000 - 4000 words plus reference liste. The paper must be written in English. Norwegian may be used if all participants are proficient in a scandinavian language.

In case of failed exam/legal absence, the candidate may have a new exam under the same conditions when a new/postponed exam is arranged. If the paper is not graded with "pass", the candidate must submit a revised version within a given time limit.

The grades are "pass" or "fail". The requirement for "pass" is that the paper builds on insights from the syllabus and outlines ideas on topics related to classroom research.

The paper will be assessed by the course coordinator and a member of the academic staff with relevant genre competence.

Target group

The target group is PhD-candidates at OsloMet, as well as PhD-candidates associated with the Center for Welfare and Labour Research (SVA) and candidates from other universities and university colleges. In addition, non-PhD-candidates may apply for admission to the course if space is available.

Admission requirements

The admission requirement is a five-year master’s degree (three years + two years) or equivalent qualifications in teacher education, other pedagogical education, educational science, development studies, or other education on equivalent level in subjects relevant for teacher education.

In case of a large number of applicants, PhD-students enrolled in the PhD programme in Educational Sciences for Teacher Education will be prioritized, then students in other PhD-programmes, then academic employees at the Faculty of Teacher Education and International Studies.

Applicants that are not enrolled on the PhD-programme at the Faculty of Education and International Studies at OsloMet must send a summary in English of maximum one A4 sheet with relevant information about their own project / area of interest, containing topic, methodology, theoretical approach, and why this course might be relevant for their project.

Pass/fail.

Two examiners assess the examination papers. At least 10% of the examination papers will be assessed by an external examiner. The external examiner’s assessment shall benefit all students.

SYKK2000 and SYKP2000 overlap 100 %.