Course - Research Methodology in Computer and Information Science - IT3010
Research Methodology in Computer and Information Science
About
About the course
Course content
The course gives a broad introduction to various research approaches in informatics and a basic overview of relevant theories of science. A basic assumption is that informatics is a multidisciplinary field requiring different types of approaches and methods, including methods from both natural science and social science. However, the main emphasis will be on empirical approaches to informatics research. Issues concerning research design, data collection methods, analysis of collected data, and writting up and dissemination of research results are covered. The research methods presented in the course:
- Surveys
- Case studies
- Action research
- Field studies
- Design-oriented methods
- Grounded theory
- Experiments
Learning outcome
The course aims at giving students the necessary knowledge and skills on research approaches and methods in informatics in order to start working with the master thesis. Thus, the course should be undertaken in the first semester in the master studies.
Learning methods and activities
Lectures: 2 hours pr. week
Writing an essay. The essay topic needs to be accepted 5 weeks in to the semester at the latest.
Recommended previous knowledge
This course is designed for students that require fundamental understanding and skills on reseach approaches and methods in order to conduct research for their master thesis. A Bachelor degree in informatics or a similar background is recommended.
Course materials
Curriculum:
1) A collection of classical research papers on issues of methodology in informatics
2) Cornford, T and Smithson, S. (1996). Project Research in Information Systems. A Students Guide. London: Macmillian
3)Hartvigsen, Gunnar (1998). Forskerhåndboken. Høgskoleforlaget
4)Robson, C. (2002) Real World Research. Oxford: Blackwell
Subject areas
- Informatics
- Technological subjects