Course content

The course focuses on the central debates concerning processes and issues involved in doing qualitative research, for example questions of ethics, interpretation, representation, reflexitivity and positionality. Furthermore the dilemmas and questions of different qualitative methods are highlighted. Lectures will address how to generate data, conduct the analysis and write up the material when adopting methods as interviews, observation, and text and image analyses are taught. The students conduct exercises in order to give them some practical experience, preferably in the method(s) they will adopt in their master theses. Finally, the students write an assignment in which they reflect upon their choice of methodology in their own master thesis.

Learning outcome

The aims of the course are to provide the students with a nuanced understanding of the concepts and techniques of qualitative methodologies and help them in preparing for qualitative research in practice.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures: 14 hours, exercise: 10 hours.
Students must choose either GEOG3005 or GEOG3006

Compulsory assignments

• Reflection notes/individual assignment

Recommended previous knowledge

See required previous knowledge.

Required previous knowledge

GEOG3003. Other relevant qualifications may be accepted by the Department of Geography. The course is optional for those attending the 5-year teacher training programme in Geography (master).

Credit reductions