LU0091, The Process of Research: Qualitative Methods, Data Analysis and Academic Writing, 15.0 Hp
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Syllabus

Finalized by: Camilo Calderon, 2024-11-05
Valid from : Autumn semester 2025 (2025-09-01)

Level

Second cycle (A1N)

Main field of study

Rural Development, Environmental Science

Grading Scale

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Course language

English

Entry Requirements

Objectives

The aim of this course is to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to use relevant research methods and approaches to data analysis, so as to produce clearly structured academic research texts.

Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:

• select relevant research methods in relation to a given research problem
• maintain a reflexive position in relation to the selected research methods and be able to apply these in specific contexts, taking important ethical aspects into consideration
• structure and write an academic research text
• present a research proposal for a research project on rural and/or environmental aspects, such as rural livelihoods, natural resources management or environmental issues, including a thematic and theoretical background
• present an analysis of published research texts, concerning rural and/or environmental aspects, such as rural livelihoods, natural resources management or environmental problems

Content

Subject-related content

The course prepares students with the skills for identifying and selecting methods in the planning execution of their master thesis. The research methods that the student may select cover qualitative research methods with a focus on primary data collection via for example ethnographic methods. Quantitative methods such as surveys will also be briefly covered. Emphasis is placed on training students to write analytically and academically.

Teaching formats

To further student learning and promote discussion, a variety of methods are used:
Lectures, literature studies, exercises, written assignments, oral assignments, seminars, presentations.

The course focuses on the following generic competencies:
Critical thinking, problem solving, scientific methods, oral communication, written communication, ability to work autonomously, plan and manage time.

The following components are mandatory:
See course schedule.

Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course

- Passed written or oral exam(s) - Active participation in mandatory activities For further information, please refer to the course schedule.

Responsible Department/Equivalent

Department of Urban and Rural Development

Supplementary information

Included in program

• Rural Development and Natural Resource Management - Master's Programme
• EnvEuro - European Master in Environmental Science
• Environmental Communication and Management - Master's Programme
• The Master's Programme Sustainable Food Systems
• Agriculture and Rural Development
• Agriculture Programme - Rural Development
• Agricultural Science with a Specialisation in Rural Development

Module set

Title	Credits	Code
Research design and process	5.0	0302
Methods for data collection	5.0	0303
Methods for analysis	5.0	0304

The Course Replaces

LU0039, LU0059