Course syllabus - Research Methods and Academic Writing

Objectives

The purpose of the course is to introduce academic research methods and reporting. The focus is on both quantitative and qualitative methods for collecting, processing, presenting and analyzing data in the field of business studies. The course is orienting and preparatory for thesis studies on bachelor and master level.

Learning outcomes

After the course the student should be able to: 
1. describe, discuss and apply central/basic concepts and methods for collection, process, presentation and interpretation of data. ; 
2. understand the practical as well as theoretical relevance in formulating a research problem and its relationship to design of methods;
3. relate ethically and responsibly to the collection and processing of data;
4. assess and value the quality of research results;
5. evaluate information and data from different type of sources;
6. write an academic report based on an autonomously conducted empirical study

Course content

The course comprise of basic knowledge and understanding of research as a practice, focusing on collection, processing and presentation of data. It provides knowledge through theoretical learning as well as practical assignments.

Tuition

Lectures, seminars, workshops and supervision

Examination

Assignment (INL1), 1,5 hp, grades Excellent (A), Very good (B), Good (C), Satisfactory (D), Sufficient (E), Insufficient, complementary work possible (Fx), Insufficient (F) Learning outcome: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6

Assignment (INL2), 3 hp,  grades Excellent (A), Very good (B), Good (C), Satisfactory (D), Sufficient (E), Insufficient, complementary work possible (Fx), Insufficient (F) Learning outcome: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Group assignment(GRU1), 3 hp,  grades Excellent (A), Very good (B), Good (C), Satisfactory (D), Sufficient (E), Insufficient, complementary work possible (Fx), Insufficient (F) Learning outcome: 1, 2, 3, 5

A student who has a certificate from MDU regarding a disability has the opportunity to submit a request for supportive measures during written examinations or other forms of examination, in accordance with the Rules and Regulations for Examinations at First-cycle and Second-cycle Level at Mälardalen University (2020/1655). It is the examiner who takes decisions on any supportive measures, based on what kind of certificate is issued, and in that case which measures are to be applied.

Suspicions of attempting to deceive in examinations (cheating) are reported to the Vice-Chancellor, in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance, and are examined by the University’s Disciplinary Board. If the Disciplinary Board considers the student to be guilty of a disciplinary offence, the Board will take a decision on disciplinary action, which will be a warning or suspension.

Grade

Excellent, Very good, Good, Satisfactory, Sufficient, Insufficient, complementary work possible, Insufficient

Interim Regulations and Other Regulations

Overlap with FOA141 and FOA155.