Course description for 2024/25
Social Science Research Methods
MKL220
Course description for 2024/25

Social Science Research Methods

MKL220
The course aims to discuss different perspectives relating to the theory of science by providing an introduction to different research approaches, and which methodological choices they imply. Emphasis will be placed on key aspects of qualitative and quantitative methodologies that explore human and social processes. The course also addresses different approaches regarding the interpretation and analysis of data. The use of case studies will be central to the course. Furthermore, the course allows students to receive training in academic reflection on and the development of relevant issues, as well as the ability to see the connection between theoretical and methodological knowledge. Research ethics constitute a fundamental topic.

In accordance with the regulations of 2005 concerning the requirements for a master's degree from section 5 of the Ministry of Education and Research: The admission requirements for experience-based master's degrees of 90 or 120 credits are the following:

  • bachelor's degree
  • cand.mag.
  • other degree or vocational training of a minimum 3 years in scope
  • education which has been approved as being equivalent to the above mentioned degrees or educational programmes, pursuant to Section 3-5 of the Norwegian Act relating to Universities and University Colleges

Because this is an experience-based master's degree, in addition to requirements for education, at least two years of relevant vocational experience is also required. The institution stipulates what is relevant vocational experience. In this context, relevant practice is documented competence within the field of management and organisation.

Passed MKL110, MKL120 og MK210 (including approved coursework requirements).

After completing the course, candidates will have attained the following learning outcomes defined in knowledge, skills and general competence:

  • has advanced knowledge of various scientific theoretical traditions ,and insight into the nature and development of the field
  • has in-depth knowledge and understanding of the research process and various social science methods
  • can identify and work independently to solve practice-related problems in organized business
  • has in-depth knowledge of research ethics guidelines
  • can apply knowledge in new areas within the subject area of knowledge management and organisation

Skills:

  • can design and analyze various issues
  • can reflect on different social science methods and use different methodological devices to analyze issues
  • can produce and analyze own empirical data in a concise and systematic way
  • can carry out critical sustainable analyses
  • can carry out professional research and development work under supervision

General competence:

  • can analyze relevant issues and different types of data
  • can apply method knowledge and skills in the development of own and others' practices and organisation
  • can apply knowledge and skills in the presentation of phenomena/facts from various scientific theoretical and methodological perspectives
See programme description.
Compulsory theoretical course.
Lectures, case studies, academic supervision, seminars, various forms of group work; discussions, practical exercises, reflective teams and response groups.

Compulsory coursework requirements - all coursework must be approved in order to take the examination

  • Approved methods paper (as the basis for the work on the master's thesis).

Final assessment:

  • Home examination, individual, 4 days, grading scale A-F, counts for 100%

The examination is in early December. Two examiners, of which at least one is an external examiner.

All.