ØKB2124 Methods for Social Science

Contents and structure

The students receive a thorough introduction to social science research methods. The course begins with an introduction to methodology, where various stages in the research process are covered. Both qualitative and quantitative research approaches and methods are studied. Among the qualitative data collection methods that are covered are interviews and focus groups. Descriptive statistics and the application of statistical methods for comparing groups are introduced. In addition, we apply multiple regressions on various types of data, and related methodological problems are studied. The course contains exercises where computer tools are used to analyze data and research problems within economic and business administrative fields.

Learning Outcome

The Student:

• Has an understanding of the different steps in a research process.
• Has knowledge of various types of research design and combinations of research approaches, both quantitative and qualitative.
• Has knowledge of basic data collection and analysis methods, both quantitative and qualitative.

The Student:

• Can define research questions and knows how to limit these, and to define relevant concepts and problems.
• Can reflect upon the possibilities for generalization, as well as discuss problems connected to validity and reliability, sources of errors, and misinterpretations in empirically based studies.
• Can consider alternative  methodic approaches to empirical analyses of research problems that often arise in the fields of economics and business administration.
• Can use and make conclusions from basic statistical and econometric methods.
• Can use and be comfortable with relevant computer tools in order to carry out in practice basic analyses based on empirical data.

Based on the other method courses (mathematics and statistics), the student has received an introduction to social science methods, including statistics and econometrics. The student is be able to reflect over research ethics as well as  assess alternative qualitative and quantitative research designs and methods.

Entry requirements

None

Recommended previous knowledge

Fundamental Statistics

Teaching methods

Lectures , seminars and exercises, including the use of relevant computer tools.

Compulsory learning activities

Yes (specified in the course plan in the semester start)

Assessment

Project; groups, 60/100

Written Exam; 40/100, 3 hours

Grade scale: A-F

Examination support material

Calculator TI-84 is handed out at written exam.

More about examination support material