MOØ223 Methodology and Research Design

Contents and structure

This course offers knowledge on methods and research design that is necessary for writing the master's thesis. The course teaches basic principles in the philosophy of science, research design and qualitative and quantitative methods. For the science of philosphy part, how different philosophical assumptions impact research designs and methods is emphasized. A short introduction to research ethics is also included with reflections on rights of respondents and datahandling. The students will learn how to develop a research design (stating a research problem, choosing a methdological framwork, discussing relevant research methods and techniques). Principle methods of data-collection, analysis and interpretation will be taught in the form of an introduction to both qualitative and quantitative techniques.

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 advanced 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 organization and apply knowledge from other parts of the master programe in an analysis of the organisation(s) as an object of study.

Competence

• justify appropriate research design for concrete research projects.  
• participate in large-scale research projects or consultancy work in the areas of organisation, relevant technology, and management.
• communicate relevant topics to both specialists and non-specialists.and know when further expertise is necessary, and where it can be found.
• analyse relevant ethical problems in research. 

Entry requirements

Admission requirements for the master programme.

Recommended previous knowledge

Completion of the first and second semesters of the master's programme.

Teaching methods

The course is organized through lectures with practical assignments in the philosophy of science and qualitative methods, including case-study research. The students are expected to participate in lectures, group-work and plenary discussions, to answer questions and to show the ability to critically reflect on the subject matters that are adressed in the course. 

Students shall participate in groupwork with oral or written presentations in the science of philosophy, quantitative methods and case-study research. Students will also be given the oppurtunity to particiapte in a pratical seminar in quantiative methods. 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 (voluntary)

Assessment

Exam:

Written home examination, 5 hours 

Grading scale is A-F where F is fail.

Examination support material

All means/tools are allowed

More about examination support material

Course reductions

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