Courses: GLODE302 Introduction to Methodology - Spring 2017
ECTS Credits
10 ECTS
Level of Study
Master's
Full-time/Part-time
Full-time
Language of Instruction
English
Teaching semester
Autumn
Objectives and Content
This course is an introduction to theory of knowledge and research methodologies, and promotes critical reflection on various epistemological and methodological approaches to research. It provides a broad overview over different methodologies, both quantitative and qualitative, and their epistemological foundations. It addresses questions of research design, formulation of research problems, quality in research, and ethics throughout the research process.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this course the students should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:
Knowledge:
The student has in-depth knowledge of:
- Different knowledge paradigms and explanatory models, and their implications for choice of methodological strategy
- Key concepts and theories within quantitative and qualitative methodologies, mixed methods and action research
- Research designs in quantitative and qualitative research, including the formulation of research questions
- Ethical principles in research and their application in quantitative and qualitative research
Skills:
The student has the ability to:
- Develop research problems, argue for their relevance and identify research methods appropriate for the selected problems
- Discuss key concepts of quality in both qualitative and quantitative research
- Discuss and deal critically with basic principles of research ethics
General competence:
The student:
- Can make qualified choices between different research methods
- Can communicate and discuss different research designs and account for their respective advantages and uses
- Can evaluate critically research literature
Required Previous Knowledge
Access to the Course
Open to all students registered in Master's Programme in Global Development Theory and Practice. Other master's students registered in relevant programmes at UiB and exchange students may apply.
Teaching Methods and Extent of Organized Teaching
Lectures, group work, and individual and/or group feedback on the two written exercises.
The course spans over six weeks and includes 18 two-hour lectures and nine seminars.
Compulsory Assignments and Attendance
2 written exercises (500 and 1000 words respectively) on topics related to the learning outcomes of the course.
Both exercises must be completed and approved before the student can proceed to the home exam.
Forms of Assessment
Home exam (7 days, 2500 words)
Grading Scale
A-F
Assessment Semester
Autumn
Reading List
The reading list will be available June 1st for the autumn semester and December 1st for the spring semester.
Course Evaluation
The course will be evaluated in accordance with the Faculty of Psychology's routines for participatory evaluation and the University of Bergen's Quality Assurance System.
Programme Committee
Department of Health Promotion and Development, Faculty of Psychology.
Course Coordinator
Department of Health Promotion and Development, Faculty of Psychology.
Course Administrator
Department of Health Promotion and Development, Faculty of Psychology.
Contact Information
Faculty of Psychology,
Information Centre:
studierettleiar.psyfa@uib.no
Tlf: (+47) 55 58 27 10