Course content

The course provides insight into how the range of geographical and social science research methods entails different premises and quality criteria for knowledge production. Students develop knowledge and competence in designing research projects, with emphasis on the connection between the formulation of research questions, theoretical approaches, the state of the art, and choice of methods.

An important part of the course is the planning and design of a research project equivalent to a master’s thesis, including the preparation of a project description in which students outline the topic, research question, methodology, and ethical considerations. The course emphasizes research-based communication as a genre, where academic writing—including the use of figures and visualization—as well as clear argumentation, are central.

Learning outcome

A student who has completed this course should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge:

• Has a critical understanding of the different stages of the research process, how a research design can be justified, and the connection between the formulation of research questions, theoretical approaches, state of knowledge, choice of methods, and the expected contribution of the research project.

Skills:

• Can critically evaluate research-based knowledge in various forms including research communication and project descriptions.
• Can develop and justify a research design for a project of the size and level of a master’s thesis.
• Can critically assess the research designs of others.

General competence:

• Can communicate research-based knowledge and research needs both orally and in writing to the general public.

Learning methods and activities

• Up to 16 hours of dialogue-based lectures.
• Up to 7 hours of compulsory seminars, including student presentations.

Compulsory activities in the course consist of the following:

• Participation in all seminars, including a seminar with presentation and discussion of one’s own project.
• Written Assignment 1: Literature review of previous research on the chosen topic and (theoretical) positioning of one’s own project.
• Peer assessment of Written Assignment 1.
• Written Assignment 2: Methodological approach to one’s own project.
• Seminar with oral presentation of Assignment 2, followed by discussion.
• Written Assignment 3: Project description.

Compulsory assignments

• Participation in all seminars, inc. a seminar with presentation and discussion of own project.
• Three written assignments.
• Peer evaluation of a written assignment.

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

Course in research method on second degree level.

Required previous knowledge

Bachelor degree or equivalent. Other relevant qualifications may be accepted by the Department of Geography and Social Anthropology.

Credit reductions