Qualitative Methods in Social Science, 7.5 credits

Contents

This course will provide students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills to engage with qualitative and interdisciplinary methods in the social sciences and an ability to problematize the methodological parts of the research process. It also deals with critical perspectives on research ethics in qualitative research. The course will provide students with experience and knowledge on how to apply and problematize qualitative research methods. Active participation by students in seminars is vital to complete course. The course is taught in English.

Expected learning outcomes

**By the end of the course the student shall have the ability to: **

Knowledge and understanding

• A comprehensive understanding of the key stages of the qualitative research process and the ability to explain their interconnections.
• Familiarity with different qualitative scientific methods and the ability to critically assess their application in different research contexts.
• An informed understanding of research ethics, including the ability to problematize ethical principles and their relevance to academic inquiry.

Skills and abilities

• Demonstrate skills and abilities in terms of collecting and analyzing qualitative empirical data
• Argue for methodological choices.

Judgement and approach

• Independently reflect on their own role in the research process,
• Independently identify and evaluate research ethical problems, as well as argue for their own research ethical positions.

Required Knowledge

To be admitted to the course applicants must have completed three semesters of full-time studies, equivalent to 90 ECTS, of which at least 15 ECTS must be an independent project or four semesters of full-time studies equivalent to 120 ECTS.Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English 6/level 2. Where the language of instruction is Swedish, applicants must prove proficiency in Swedish to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.

Form of instruction

The course is a full-time on-line course in English. The course is taught entirely through an electronic Learning Management System where the student takes part in lectures, mandatory assignments and other learning activities. The studies are characterized by a high degree of independent and active search for knowledge, and critical reflection, both individually and in groups.

Examination modes

Examination takes place through fulfilment of two parts:

1. Seminars and mandatory assignments during the course
2. Individual written assignment.

Written assignments may be followed up with an oral review.

For part 1 the grades are Fail (U) or Pass (G). For part 2, as well as for the whole course, the grades are Fail (U), Pass (G) and Pass with Distinction (VG). The grade for the whole course in based on the examination of part 2. In order to be awarded Pass for the entire course, it is necessary that all examinations and all compulsory teaching sessions have been passed. A re- examination can be offered at the earliest ten days and at the latest three months after publishing information about the first examination. One more examination will be offered within the next year. A student who has passed the examination is not eligible for a new examination to raise grades. The option of a re-examination based on the original course syllabus will be available for at least two years after a student registered for the course. All in all, a student is given five chances of fulfilling the course examination. A student has the right to change examiner after failing two examinations for a course module, unless there are strong arguments against this.