This optional module is part of UPED852 Optional modules.
We survey the methods used for higher education research (with a focus on the SoTL field (scholarship of teaching and learning) from international perspectives. We will explore how different methods and study designs serve the purpose of addressing different kinds of research questions. We will also co-develop some research proposals that may be used for future studies in higher education.
This will be a hands-on module, where we will not only learn about, but also practice designing different types of research and participants are encouraged to use their own their own milieu as a potential case. The main output will be the research proposals designed through the course. Development of strong proposals will be ensured through careful reflection on the designs and methods used for specific purposes in previous studies. This module will be useful for all faculty who are interested in pursuing research in the field of higher education.
Key Concepts
- Interpreting and critiquing research studies
- Matching epistemologies, questions, theories, and methods in research design
- Strategies for mitigating bias in self-studies
- Elements of research proposal design
Organization of module
This course is an estimated 20 hours of work. There will be 8 hours of seminars (3 of which are synchronous), that will include lecturing, group discussions, and feedback. It is expected that participants use 2-3 hours reading background information and publications. Finally, it is expected that there will be roughly 8-9 hours of hands-on exercise where the participants will develop an assessment that they can use in their future work after the module is completed.
Form: In-person/digital seminars and preparation/practice in-between.
Learning platform: Canvas
Seminars
Schedule for the two synchronous seminars (offered in hybrid format, both in Kronstad, Bergen, and online/synchronous):
- 9.30-11.00 (CET) on 20 May, 2025
- 9.30-11.00 (CET) on 3 June, 2025
Learning outcomes
This module has 2 in-person seminars.
- Before the 1st seminar, the participants will be expected to read some background literature and to watch and comment on tailor-made videos for the course
- 1st seminar work in disciplinary, interdisciplinary and international groups
- Before the 2nd seminar, the participants will be expected to work on design of their research proposal, and share with group members and then read, comment and give feedback to each other’s work.
- 2nd seminar presentation and feedback
After completion of this module, the participants will be able to:
- Interpret and critically evaluate different types of research and give relevant comments and feedback for improvement
- Demonstrate awareness of the components of research design
- Design a research study in the SoTL field (teaching and learning in higher education)
Evaluation
In addition to attendance, there are two main tasks
- to develop a brief research proposal to address a topic in the SoTL field (teaching and learning in higher education)
- to provide feedback (written before the seminar and verbally in class) to each other on the research proposals.
Background literature
Yeo, M., Miller-Young, J., & Manarin, K. (2023). SoTL research methodologies: A guide to conceptualizing and conducting the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning. Taylor & Francis.
Recommended reading
Bryman, A. (2016). Social Research Methods. Oxford University Press.
Gronmø, S. (2023). Social Research methods: Qualitative, Quantitative and Mixed Methods Approaches. Sage.