MSB209 Advanced Method 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. 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 methods and techniques.

This course begins with an introduction to the nature and status of knowledge. Ethical considerations and the legal framework regarding data collection and storage of data will be assessed. Literature analysis and how conduct/create a literature review is also emphasized. With basis in the acquired learning experience of the introductory part, the students will draft a mandatory assignment in academic writing.

The course is a part of Master of Science in Business (MSB) - profile Campus Bergen: Management and innovation.

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, organize and write a master’s thesis equivalent to 30 ECTS credits

• ethics in scientific research.

• has knowledge about the main ontological and epistemological positions in research philosophy

• has knowledge about the legal framework regarding data collection and storage of data.

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.

• conduct an epistemological and ontological argument on the status of knowledge and its credibility in particular given contexts and scenarios.

• analyse literature to conduct/create a literature review.

General Competence

On completion of the course, the student can:

• systematize, criticize, and use knowledge published in scientific literature.

• 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

None

Recommended previous knowledge

Completion of first and second semester

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 knowledge taught.

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 opportunity to particiapte in a pratical seminar in quantitative methods. The course may include one seminar outside HVL.

The master program in Science of Business will include a mandatory course in academic writing (2,5 ECT) and the students will complete a mandatory assignment from this part.

Compulsory learning activities

The following requirements must be passed before the candidate can present themselves for examination:

Deliver a research design proposal for the master`s thesis

Participate in group work and deliver a written presentation in philosophy of science

Participate in group work and give an oral presentation in qualitative research methods

Participate in group work and and deliver a written presentation in case study-methods

Deliver a mandatory assignment regarding academic writing

Participation, if offered, in student-driven seminar on quantitative techniques is voluntary

Passed assignments are valid for the examination semester and 3 following semesters

Assessment

Written digital home exam, 6 hours.

Grading scale is A-f, where F is fail.

Examination support material

All means/tools allowed

More about examination support material