Course syllabus - Advanced method in social science

Objectives

The purpose of the course is to provide an in-depth understanding of different methodological perspectives and approaches within social science research, as well as the ability to independently apply this knowledge in the conduct of scientific studies. The course also addresses philosophical and ethical aspects related to the application of different methods.

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of the course, the student should demonstrate:

Knowledge and Understanding
1. understanding of central philosophical and methodological perspectives in social science
2. broad knowledge of key social science methods
3. in-depth understanding of the appropriateness and limitations in the application of chosen research design and methods

Skills and Abilities
4. ability to articulate and engage in dialogue about research ethics, both orally and in writing
5. good ability to identify and apply an appropriate social science method to address a research problem
6. ability to develop, apply, and critically reflect on various types of research designs
7. good ability in oral and written academic presentation

Judgment and Approach
8. ability to critically reflect on the consequences of different philosophical perspectives in the study of social science issues
9. ability to critically reflect on the advantages and disadvantages of various methodological choices

Course content

The course is divided into three parallel blocks. Block 1 consists of philosophy of science and methodology, block 2 focuses on social science methods, and block 3 covers research design and specialization.

Block 1: Philosophy of Science and Methodology, 1.5 credits
In the first block, various philosophical and methodological perspectives are addressed. This block is assessed through an oral examination (MUN1).

Block 2: Social Science Methods, 6 credits
In the second block, students engage with social science methods. Both data collection methods, data analysis methods, and non-empirical methods are covered. Block 2 is assessed through two seminars (SEM1, 3 credits) and (SEM2, 3 credits), along with associated seminar assignments.

Block 3: Research Design and Specialization, 7.5 credits
In the third block, students are required to develop a first draft of a research project where they provide an in-depth elaboration of  their research design and delve into a specific method. This block is assessed through a written assignment and an accompanying opposition seminar (INL1, 7.5 credits).

The opposition seminar must be completed before the student submits the final version of the work. Within the third block, ethical dimensions of the research assignment should also be discussed.

Specific requirements

A university degree of at least 180 credits, with 90 credits in Political Science, or the equivalent. In addition English 6 or equivalent is required.

Examination

Oral examination (MUN1), 1.5 credits, G (relates to learning objectives 1, 7 and 8)
Seminar (SEM1), 3 credits, G (relates to learning objectives 2,4 7 and 9)
Seminar (SEM2), 3 credits, G, (relates to learning objectives 2,4 7 and 9)
Written assignment (INL1), 7.5 credits, G, VG (relates to learning objectives 3-9)

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

Pass with distinction, Pass, Fail