Business Administration, Research Methodology, 7.5 credits

Contents

The aim of this course is to acquire a basic knowledge of scientific paradigms and research methods. Further, the aim is to develop the students’ ability, first to plan and in written form report a scientific study, and second, to evaluate and use scientific as well as other reports.

The course begins with a discussion on the process of knowledge creation, with an emphasis on the production of scientific knowledge. Important building blocks in this process are frames of reference, scientific ideals, problem formulation, scientific approaches and methods for data collection and analysis.

Particular emphasis is placed on the importance of a well thought-out choice of topic, problematisation, and a careful specification of the problem statement (research question). To this general scientific approach, research design and different types of research strategies are addressed. Further, the possibilities and limitations of quantitative and qualitative methods are discussed. Methods for sampling and data collection are scrutinized, among other things based on the possibilities of accessing information.

The course also includes activities that develops the students’ ability to find information in databases, to use different types of information in an appropriate manner, and to evaluate this information and the sources according to relevant criteria.

Expected learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

After completing this course, the student should be able to:

• describe the main scientific ideals, and explain how different values and perspectives influence the process of knowledge creation,
• describe the different characteristics of qualitative and quantitative methods and evaluate the suitability of different methods to solve different types of research questions,
• demonstrate knowledge and understanding of research ethics, and what is plagiarism.

Skills and ability

After completing this course, the student should be able to:

• critically examine other scientific studies from different perspectives,
• within a given timeframe plan and design a scientific study, analyse data and discuss its results,
• communicate central concepts for the course in English, both orally and in writing.

Judgement and approach

After completing this course, the student should be able to:

• independently search, critically evaluate and use different types of information,
• argue for the formulation of a particular problem (research question), scientific strategies and methodological choices, and analyse an empirical and theoretical material.

Required Knowledge

60 credits in Business Administration.
Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English 6/level 2.

Form of instruction

Learning is supported through lectures, seminars and supervision, as well as a group assignment where students plan and design a scientific study. All teaching is in English.

Examination modes

The examination consists of

• a written group assignment with an oral presentation,
• a written individual hall exam.

For a passing grade on the module, each part of the examination must be passed. All examinations are in English.

The following grading system is used:

Pass with distinction (Väl godkänd, VG, 75% or more),
Pass (Godkänd, G, 50% or more), and
Fail (Underkänd U, less than 50%).

A student who does not pass the first examination will be offered an opportunity to sit a re-examination within two months. An additional examination opportunity is normally offered every academic year, one week prior to the start of the autumn term. If required by specific circumstances, other form of examination can be used.

A student that has failed an examination on two occasions has a right to have another examiner or grading teacher appointed, unless there are special reasons against it. A written request addressed to the Director of Studies should be made no later than 14 days before the next examination opportunity.

Adaptations
Examiners may decide to deviate from the modes of assessment in the course syllabus. Individual adaptation of modes of assessment must give due consideration to the student's needs. The adaptation of modes of assessment must remain within the framework of the intended learning outcomes in the course syllabus. Students who require an adapted examination - and have received a decision on the right to support from the coordinator at the Student Services Office for students with disabilities - must submit a request to the department holding the course no later than 10 days before the examination. The examiner decides on the adaptation of the examination, after which the student will be notified.

Academic integrity and cheating
As a student, you are expected to act with academic integrity. This means writing and presenting within the limits of the academic rules and expectations communicated in the university's regulations and what is otherwise specified by the responsible department. Disciplinary action may be taken against students who use unauthorized help aids or in some other way try to mislead in examination. Rules and regulations concerning the production of academic texts and correct referencing is applicable to written assignments. Submitted material may be subject to plagiarism control. In addition, Umeå University rules and regulations for education and research apply.

Transfer of credits
Student who considers themselves to possess knowledge from previous relevant studies or professional or vocational experience that can be comparable to a course or part of a course, can apply for transfer of credits. Approved transfer of credits means that the student does not need to take the or those parts of the course that the decision covers. Information about transfer of credits can be found on Umeå University's web site.

Other regulations

The course is recommended for students within a Master Program in Business Administration that have not studied research methods before within the frame of their bachelor’s degree. The course is also available to exchange students within the formal exchange agreements.

The course cannot be included in a degree together with 2FE032, 2BA307, 2FE014, 2FE104 or 2FE105.

Transitional provisions

The Rules for grading and examination regulate what applies to re-examinations in cases where a course has been discontinued or a course syllabus has undergone major changes.

This document has been translated from Swedish into English. If the English version differs from the original, the Swedish version takes precedence.