course-details-portlet

AM521917

Qualitative Research Methods

Credits 7.5
Level Second degree level
Course start Autumn 2026
Duration 1 semester
Language of instruction English
Location Ålesund
Examination arrangement Assignment/Home examination/Oral

About

About the course

Course content

  • The theoretical basis for qualitative research
  • Research design, rationale and example case studies
  • Data collection, observational studies, interviews, documentary research methods etc.
  • Data analysis and the use of software for qualitative analysis
  • Interpretation, validity, reliability and ethical considerations in qualitative research

Learning outcome

  1. Explain the philosophical underpinnings and principles of qualitative research.
  2. Justify the selection of qualitative methodologies and methods in comparison to alternative approaches.
  3. Critically evaluate qualitative studies in international business and sustainability.
  4. Demonstrate reflexivity in qualitative research practice, including ethical considerations.
  5. Apply data collection and analysis techniques using appropriate qualitative tools.
  6. Communicate research processes and findings through diverse media and scholarly formats.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, workshops, presentation of research articles and group projects. Lectures present and discuss different designs for qualitative research projects. Learners participate in discussions with each other and teachers/facilitators. Workshops give students the opportunity to explore and try out different methods for collecting data.

80% attendance is obligatory.

Further on evaluation

  • The exam consists of two course assessments (contributing to the final grade) and one final home exam.
  • If a student misses or fails one or both assessments, these must be retaken and passed in the autumn semester of the following academic year in order to qualify for that year’s final exam.
  • Students who wish to improve a passed grade may also retake one or both assessments and/or the final home exam, but only in the autumn semester of the following academic year.

Required previous knowledge

The requirements for admittance to the study programme.

Course materials

A list of course material will be available at the beginning of the course.

Subject areas

  • Economics and Administration

Contact information

Course coordinator

Lecturers

Department with academic responsibility

NTNU School of International Business

Examination

Examination

Examination arrangement: Assignment/Home examination/Oral
Grade: Letter grades

Ordinary examination - Autumn 2026

Group assignment
Weighting 35/100 Exam system Inspera Assessment
Oral examination
Weighting 15/100
Home examination
Weighting 50/100 Duration 24 hours Exam system Inspera Assessment