ME6-1002 Research Methods in Social Sience

Contents and structure

The course introduces students to the theory of science and research ethics. The course takes students through the hierarchical steps within the research process, from research question development to the writing of the final report, covering both qualitative and quantitative approaches, rationale of choice, and differences. Lectures will be complemented by seminars requiring active student participation.

Learning Outcome

Knowledge:

On completion of the course, the students should be able to:

• gain knowledge of key concepts in social science research and schools of thought
• understand the foundations and principles of social science research, and design research projects.

Skills:

Upon completion, the students should be able to:

¿ explain and apply theory to direct qualitative and quantitative analyses ¿ execute steps such as formulating research problem and conducting literature review leading to analyses ¿ understand basic principles within qualitative and quantitative research domains relevant to economic-administrative problem areas ¿ conduct simple surveys and write project assignments under guidance

General competency:

Upon completion, the students should be able to:

¿ read and understand social science research papers published in recognized journals in economic-administrative subject areas ¿ make  critical assessments based upon past research, reflect on one's own academic practice, and work in groups to carry out own investigations.

Entry requirements

None

Recommended previous knowledge

None

Teaching methods

Teaching and Learning:

In-class lectures, and seminars/problem solving in groups. The course focuses on learning through student activities, and working with practical problems through cases and problem solving at seminar sessions.

Compulsory learning activities

Assignment

One written assignment to be solved in groups of up to four students. The assignment must be passed in order to appear in the final exam. 

Assessment

Written, individual examination, 4 hours. Letter grades

Examination support material

None

More about examination support material

Course reductions

• ME6-200 - Samfunnsvitskapleg metode og statistikk - Reduction: 3.5 studypoints
• ME6-200 - Samfunnsvitskapleg metode og statistikk - Reduction: 3.5 studypoints
• ØKB2124 - Samfunnsvitskapleg metode - Reduction: 7.5 studypoints
• ØMO111 - Samfunnsvitskapleg metode - Reduction: 7.5 studypoints