Qualitative Methods

2024/2025

Content, progress and pedagogy of the module

Disclaimer.
This is an English translation of the module. In case of discrepancy between the translation and the Danish version, the Danish version of the module is valid.

PURPOSE
This course module aims to give the student insight into and an overview of qualitative methods, their scientific theoretical prerequisites and their practical application possibilities in interaction design. The module provides an in-depth introduction to methods for collecting qualitative data including ethnographic studies, structured and semi-structured interviews, case studies, observation and diaries, as well as methods for analysis of qualitative data, e.g. data coding, thematic analysis, and grounded theory. Including introduction and discussion of the basic concepts of generalizability, reliability, internal validity and external validity, as well as the scientific theoretical foundation of the methods. The course also introduces the specific applications of qualitative methods in interaction design, and trains the students' ability to select and apply qualitative methods.

Learning objectives

Knowledge

  • must be able to explain qualitative methods, their core concepts, applications, strengths, weaknesses, and limitations
  • must be able to demonstrate insight into differences and similarities between different qualitative methods in relation to their specific application possibilities, generalizability, reliability, internal validity and external validity
  • must be able to demonstrate knowledge of the application of qualitative methods to highlight issues concerning interaction design

Skills

  • must be able to apply qualitative methods to highlight key issues regarding interaction design empirically and analytically
  • must be able to formulate, assess and convey key issues within the concepts, application and limitations of the qualitative method
  • must be able to argue on a methodological and methodological scientific basis

Competences

  • must be able to carry out a specific qualitative study in relation to an issue concerning interaction design, and be able to argue for the specific chosen method, as well as reflect on its strengths and weaknesses

Type of instruction

The teaching is organized in accordance with the general teaching methods for the education, cf. section 17.

Extent and expected workload

The student is expected to spend 30 hours per ECTS, which for this activity means 150 hours.

Exam

Exams

Name of examQualitative Methods
Type of exam
Written or oral exam
ECTS5
Assessment7-point grading scale
Type of gradingInternal examination
Criteria of assessmentThe criteria of assessment are stated in the Examination Policies and Procedures

Additional information

Contact: Study Board for Computer Science via cs-sn@cs.aau.dk or 9940 8854

Facts about the module

Danish titleKvalitativ metode
Module codeDSNIXDB413
Module typeCourse
Duration1 semester
SemesterSpring
ECTS5
Language of instructionDanish
Empty-place SchemeYes
Location of the lectureCampus Aalborg
Responsible for the module

Organisation

Education ownerBachelor of Science (BSc) in Interaction Design
Study BoardStudy Board of Computer Science
DepartmentDepartment of Computer Science
FacultyThe Technical Faculty of IT and Design