MOØ223 Methodology and Research Design

Contents and structure

This course offers knowledge on research design that is necessary for writing the master's thesis. The course is organised in such a way as to give the students personal experience in the principle methods of data collection, analysis and interpretation. Students are expected to participate extensively with presentations and discussions. Students are required to submit one written report.

Learning Outcome

Knowledge

On completion of the course, the student has advanced knowledge of:

• the main principles of research design.
• relevant concepts and methods of data collection, analysis and interpretation.
• qualitative and quantitative research strategies.
• how to prepare, organise and write a masters thesis equivalent to 30 ECTS credits.
• ethics in scientific research.

Skills

On completion of the course, the student can:

• conduct data collection with necessary skills for critical research.
• conduct analysis using quantitative and qualitative research methods.
• undertake balanced criticism of data sources.
• initiate, develop and implement a scientific research project on a private or public organisation with respect to organisational structure, culture, human relations, technology, innovation capacity, management, ethical behaviour, and social and environmental responsibility.

Competence

On completion of the course, the student can:

• read, criticize and use knowledge published in scientific literature.
• participate in large-scale research projects.
• participate in consultancy work in the areas of organisation, relevant technology and management
• communicate relevant topics to both specialists and non-specialists.
• know when further expertise is necessary, and where it can be found.

Entry requirements

Admission requirements for the master programme.

Recommended previous knowledge

Completion of first and second semesters.

Teaching methods

The most important success factor is self-study and participating in organised seminars with student presentations. Self-study is important in order to benefit from course readings and assignments. This will be complemented by lectures and working through some examples. The course may include one seminar outside HVL. 

Compulsory learning activities

1. One research design proposal for the master`s thesis.   

2. Student's must also fulfill the three following tasks:

Group work and written presentation- philosophy of science and research ethics

Group work and oral presentation in class - qualitative methods

Group work and written presentation- case study methods

3. Participate in seminar/group discussion in quantiative methods

Assessment

Exam:

Written home examination, 5 hours 

Grading scale is A-F where F is fail.

Examination support material

All means/tools allowed

More about examination support material

Course reductions

• INN522 - Forskningsdesign og metode - Reduction: 6 studypoints
• MSB209 - Avansert metode og forskningsdesign - Reduction: 7.5 studypoints