MBA503 Research methodology and philosophy of science

Contents and structure

The course is compulsory and is held in the first semester of the programme.

The course addresses research ethics, basic academic problems, key methodological approaches and quality in kindergarten research. The course also addresses different research designs, research traditions and knowledge interests with a specific focus on kindergarten research.

Students will become familiar with examples of national and international research that approach kindergarten as organisation and structure, kindergarten as relationship and Kindergarten from a change perspective. The difference between researching  children/staff and researching with children/staff will also be addressed.

Learning Outcome

Upon completing the course the student shall have the following overall learning outcomes:

The student

• has in-depth knowledge of research ethics guidelines and professional ethics
• has in-depth knowledge of key topics and traditions relating to academic theory that are relevant to kindergarten practices.
• has in-depth knowledge of relevant quantitative and qualitative research methods

The student

• can analysis and critically assess research literature on kindergartens and differentiate between different research traditions within kindergarten research.
• can analysis the consequences of the choice of scientific theory and methodology for formulating and implementing research work.

The student

• can analyse relevant research ethics issues and critically assess ethical dilemmas relating to kindergarten research
• can identify and communicate the importance of national and international research and development work in the context of Norwegian kindergartens.
• can read and write academic texts

Entry requirements

None

Teaching methods

Teaching in the course takes the form of lectures, group work, seminars, research and writing exercises, literature studies and reflective work with own thoughts and experiences.

Supervision is available for coursework requirements.

The teaching presupposes that the students have worked compressively with the course literature in advance.

Compulsory learning activities

Student conducted seminar

The student shall introduce and conduct a seminar. The seminar will involve a specific academic theory topic based on two articles.

Guidelines for the coursework requirements are given at the start of the semester.

Those who do not have a coursework requirement approved will be given one new opportunity to compensate.

Approved coursework requirements are valid for 2 years following approval.

Assessment

Individual, written, 7-day home exam.

The scope is 2400-3000 words.

The date for issuing and submitting the exam will be provided in Studentweb and in the digital examination system.

Grade scale of A-F, where F is equivalent to a fail grade.

Examination support material

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