ME6-1002 Research Methods in Social Sience

Contents and structure

The course starts with a philosophy of science introduction. Before proceeding to the phases of a research project. From developing a research question and design to collecting and analysing data and discussing and presenting the findings for qualitative and quantitative studies. The students also learn about digital methods, particularly the use of secondary data from the internet and social media.

Learning Outcome

Knowledge

The students can explain the following;

• the basic terms and modes of research methods.
• how research is planned and carried out in social sciences.
• how theory directs qualitative and quantitative studies.
• qualitative and quantitative data collection methods and analysis and how these two methods can be combined.
• digital research methods and the particular benefits and challenges related to these methods.

Skills

The students can;

• formulate research problems and hypothesis.
• choose between different research designs and data collection methods.
• carry out qualitative and quantitative data collection methods, analysis and interpretation of the findings, including a few digital methods.
• assure the quality of the data collection, analysis and understanding of the findings
• evaluate the quality of research.
• plan, carry out and present studies with supervision.
• show oral and written communication skills and communicate the content of analysis, methodical decisions, results, and conditions.

General competence

The students can;

• carry out critical thinking and ethical research reflection, and show responsibility in their research.
• critically evaluate their sources, and reflect upon their methodological practice.
• work in groups to plan and later carry out their bachelor’s thesis.

Entry requirements

None

Recommended previous knowledge

ME6-1001 Statistics, BØA1155 Statistics for Economists, or similar knowledge.

Teaching methods

Lectures, seminars, assignments, group work and self-study.

Class attendance is expected. Please come well-prepared.

Compulsory learning activities

Three assignments.

Two practical tasks and one oral presentation in groups of 2-3 students.

Assessment

Home exam over two days, in groups of two to three students.

Examination support material

All, but the answer must be the students' own work.

More about examination support material

Course reductions

• ME6-200 - Samfunnsvitskapleg metode og statistikk - Reduction: 3.5 studypoints
• ME6-200 - Samfunnsvitskapleg metode og statistikk - Reduction: 3.5 studypoints
• ØKB2124 - Samfunnsvitskapleg metode - Reduction: 7.5 studypoints
• ØMO111 - Samfunnsvitskapleg metode - Reduction: 7.5 studypoints