Methodes of Qualitative Research Processes

The course provides an introduction to relevant methods for studying various social and cultural phenomena and processes. It covers key aspects of qualitative research methods, such as the production and collection of different types of data material, assessment of quality and relevance, and preparation for further processing (analysis). This also includes topics such as source criticism, research ethics, and the researcher’s position and role.

The objective of the course is to ensure that students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to design and implement a methodological framework for investigating sociocultural relations and processes.

Students completing this course will have knowledge of:

• Qualitative research methods, including fundamental methodological issues
• Conducting a qualitative research process, with emphasis on various techniques for data production and strategies for presenting research findings
• Selection of data and source types for analyzing different research questions
• Collection of appropriate empirical material
• Evaluation of collected data and preparation for analysis
• Research ethics and relevant guidelines

Students completing this course will have skills in:

• Developing a research problem and formulating research questions
• Producing, collecting, and assessing material relevant to the research problem
• Preparing different types of data and sources for further processing
• Designing a project description

Lectures, individual exercises and group work. Assessment form is home exam. To take the exam, the student must have participated in practical, written exercises that go through the entire course. 100% of the exercises must be completed. As a supplement to the compulsory assignments, the students are offered supervision. This offer is due to restricted capacity, limited to students whose assignments have not yet been approved. Further information about the scope and requirements for exercises is given at the beginning of the semester. Attendance at lectures is compulsory (75% attendance requirement). Students who do not meet the attendance requirement may, upon application to the department, be allowed to complete a compensatory assignment. The compensatory work will be adapted to the extent of the absence and may be written and/or oral.