Course - Theories and Methods for Master Thesis - AAR4874
Theories and Methods for Master Thesis
Assessments and mandatory activities may be changed until September 20th.
About
About the course
Course content
The course is an introduction to science theory and research methods intended to prepare the student to work on their master thesis. The course covers relevant theory and methods and basic concepts using qualitative and quantitative methods. Research design with focus on the relation between topic, problem statement, research questions and relevant theory and methods will be discussed. Requirements for the master thesis regarding structure, language, use of references and theory will be presented.
Learning outcome
KNOWLEDGE:
- In-depth knowledge of the requirements for master's thesis in terms of structure, content, research design, reference usage and scope.
- Knowledge of the theory and method for conducting research in relevant subjects
- Adequate knowledge in quantitative and qualitative methods.
SKILLS:
- Can elaborate a research topic and relevant research questions.
- Can can present a theoretical framework for analysing the problem and questions
- Can develop a research design using using relevant methodology and theories.
- Can explain choices and use of quantitative and / or qualitative methods in the work of his owned planned master's thesis.
GENERAL COMPETENCE:
- The candidate can identify challenges and opportunities related to the use of theory/literature, access to data and possible consequences with regard to research design.
- The candidate will have high competences in elaborating research themes and questions for at master thesis work - be aware of the interdependencies between research question, theory and method.
Learning methods and activities
The lectures will cover subjects include research methods, theory of science, research ethics and the writing of the report. The schedule for the lectures and workshops is published when the semester starts, which will state the dates for mandatory activities. There will be some digital lectures about specific approaches for methods, linked to mandatory assignments. Theory thinking and research problem development are primarily in physical lectures. Presentation of different fields of work from the Department of Architecture and Planning will be done early in the semester. Students are expected to read the course literature to be actively engaged in class.
This course is offered to international master’s students. Language of instruction is English if necessary.
Compulsory assignments
- Assignment
Further on evaluation
The main deliverable for the course is a written project that can be a basis for the master thesis. The assignment can be conducted individually or eventually in pairs.
Several short mandatory assignments addressing key theory and methodological issues are required to be completed and approved before the candidate is able to submit the assignment for examination.
More on evaluation
The assignment will be awarded a letter grade. The candidate must pass this course (or approved equivalent) to enroll in the master's thesis course. Students can register for a re-scheduled exam in the next exam period.
Specific conditions
Admission to a programme of study is required:
Facility Management (MAEIENDOM)
Facility Management (MEIENDOM)
Required previous knowledge
Passed first year of master program in Real Estate Development and Facilities Management, Master Program in Physical Planning, Masters Program in Urban Ecological Planning
Course materials
Papers,articles and textbooks.
Subject areas
- Facility Management
- Urban Design and Planning
- Architectural Design and Management
- Town and Regional Planning
- Architecture
Contact information
Course coordinator
Lecturers
- Carmel Margaret Lindkvist
- Helge Hillnhütter
- Ingfrid Lyngstad
- Kjersti Bjørkeng Størdal
- Morten Gjerde
- Peter Andreas Gotsch
- Rolee Aranya