Research Methodology for Secondary Analysis, Systematic/Scoping Review, Meta- Analysis/Metasynthesis
This methodological course deals with secondary analysis, systematic/scoping review, meta-analysis and metasynthesis.
The aim of the course is to improve the knowledge and skills of doctoral candidates who will use these research methods as parts of their research.
It equips the candidates with basic knowledge and skills so they can plan and carry out high-quality research in connection with their professional development.
It also deals in particular with key aspects of writing the research protocol; registration of the literature review protocol on the PROSPERO; principles for conducting searches in national and international databases; introduction and access to national data sources (such as HUNT, TIMMS or PISA databases); critical assessment of primary studies and risk of bias; data mining; data analysis and knowledge synthesis using both qualitative and quantitative methods; interpretation; reporting and dissemination of research findings.
After completing the course
Knowledge
Candidates:
- Have advanced knowledge about and are able to master secondary analysis, systematic/scoping review, meta-analysis and metasynthesis regarding research questions, research design and the study process and reporting findings.
- Can assess the appropriateness and application, as well as contribute to the development of these research methods in research projects in accordance with the candidate’s relevant academic background.
Skills
Candidates:
- Can apply knowledge and identify new relevant issues, formulate research questions and conduct high-quality studies by collecting required data and adapting analysis in the light of objectives with the use of both primary and secondary data.
- Can deal with academic/interdisciplinary questions and develop their own research design model.
General competence
Candidates
- Can account for the strengths and weaknesses of these research methods with regard to the use of findings in the subject area.
- Can show a critical approach to scientific articles that use these research methods, especially in terms of validity and reliability.
- Can identify new relevant ethical issues and conduct their research with professional integrity and contribute to innovation and innovative processes.
- Can participate in academic and interdisciplinary research projects.
Session-based (over four days) involving lectures, group work and presentations with supervision from teachers. Self-study and coursework are expected both before and after the sessions.
Teaching Spring 2026:
- Physical classes in Bodø
- Week 6: Monday 02.02. Tuesday 03.02. Wednesday 04.02. Thursday 05.02
Coursework Requirement:
Candidates, either in pairs (groups of two) or individually, are assigned to read a scholarly article employing one of the relevant research methods aligned with their academic background. They are required to engage in a critical discussion and submit a written report (1,000 words) analyzing the research question/hypothesis, conceptual framework, research design, data collection, and data analysis. The report must be submitted within one week after the conclusion of the course instruction. The coursework must be approved in order to qualify for the final examination. Assessment: Approved / Not approved.
Final Assessment – Individual Assignment:
Each candidate is required to submit an individual research protocol (10 pages) within the field of health or education. The protocol must include the research question/hypothesis, conceptual framework, research design and rationale for selection, data sources, data analysis, procedures for ensuring validity and reliability, and a plan for reporting the results.
The assignment must be approved in order for the candidate to receive a final grade in the course.
Both internal and external examiners are used in the assessment process.
Assessment: Pass / Fail.