Quantitative research methods

The course will provide the basis for the selection and discussion of appropriate methods related to quantitative research questions and understanding of quantitatively oriented research and development, how to work scientifically and how to draft researchable questions. The course will also provide thorough knowledge of the philosophical basis for quantitative approaches toward science, including research designs, methods, and basic statistics.

Knowledge
The student:
- Describes, explains and discusses the principles of quantitative research designs, formulation of research questions and hypotheses
- Selects the relevant quantitative methods and statistical analysis in relation to research questions and hypotheses
  
Skill
The student:
- Analyzes existing theories, methods and interpretations in order to prepare research questions on scientific grounds
- Selects and implements relevant quantitative analysis

General competence
The student:
- Integrates knowledge in a field to formulate research questions based on critical analysis
- Applies in a task relevant scientific perspectives, design, methodology and analysis

Main topics of the first week are the theoretical/philosophical basis for quantitative methods and research designs. Between the first and second week the students work on issues related to quantitative research designs. The second week are about basic statistics, exercises in statistics and statistical analysis. Between the second and third week, the students work on exercises in statistics. Work on problems in study groups shall be in accordance with specified learning outcomes. In the the third week students rehearse solving problems related to the exam, and the week ends with a written exam.