Research Methodology

2018/2019

Content, progress and pedagogy of the module

In the module students will learn to plan large and complex research studies independently and on the basis of information studies. Emphasis will be on the student’s independent identification and description of the research object, and on the student’s reflections on various methodological approaches for the implementation of the research study, including quantitative and qualitative approaches.

The module comprises virtual courses, seminars and supervision within the following area:

  • research design

Learning objectives

Knowledge

In this module students will acquire knowledge of:

  • disciplinary paradigms and scientific methods
  • the correlation between theory of science, scientific methods and choice of theory in scientific research studies

Skills

In this module students will acquire skills in:

  • structuring subject specific research studies and research projects, including choice of research object, method and theory
  • assessing the consequences of various methodological and theoretical approaches to subject specific studies and research projects

Competences

In this module students will acquire competences in:

  • structuring subject specific studies and research projects in specific contexts in practice
  • working independently and engaging in professional collaboration as regards the structuring of subject specific studies and research projects, with a professional approach.

Exam

Exams

Name of examResearch Methodology
Type of exam
Written exam
The examination is a take-home assignment in which the student/s will explain the design of a large subject specific study within the disciplinary area of the programme, on the basis of the module, however the actual study will not be carried out. The student/s will choose the topic, and the submission deadline will be set by the Study Board.

The written assignment may be prepared in groups of up to three students. If the written assignment is prepared in a group, it must be stated which student is responsible for which part of the work. The written performance will be assessed, that is, each student will be assessed on the basis of the specific paragraphs written by that student. The written assignment paper must not exceed eight pages if written individually, ten pages if written in groups of two, and twelve pages if written in groups of three students.
ECTS5
Permitted aids
All written and all electronic aids
AssessmentPassed/Not Passed
Type of gradingInternal examination
Criteria of assessmentIn the evaluation of the examination performance, the assessment of 'pass' will be awarded to students who demonstrate that they have fulfilled the above objectives to a satisfactory extent.

The assignment paper will be evaluated by the examiner; in case of a fail grade, the assignment paper will also be evaluated by another internal examiner.

Facts about the module

Danish titleResearch Methodology
Module codeKAINFOS167
Module typeCourse
Duration1 semester
SemesterAutumn
ECTS5
Language of instructionEnglish
Location of the lectureCampus Aalborg
Responsible for the module

Organisation

Study BoardStudy Board of Communication and Digital Media
DepartmentDepartment of Communication and Psychology
FacultyThe Faculty of Humanities