Research Methods (MHR101)
This course will provide a platform for your learning in the master's program as well as your lifelong learning in a manager-, consultant-, and researcher role. The course offers opportunities to develop skills and competence in identifying, collecting, evaluating, synthesizing, and presenting management- and leadership relevant information. The course will also introduce you to contemporary research methods and writing a master thesis. Methods are selected from major management-relevant social science disciplines such as psychology, sociology, and organization studies.
Course description for study year 2024-2025
Course code
MHR101
Version
1
Credits (ECTS)
10
Semester tution start
Autumn
Number of semesters
1
Exam semester
Autumn
Language of instruction
English
Content
The course starts with a presentation and evaluation of the foundation for good social science research including design-, sample-, measurement-, and analysis issues. Then we introduce important quality concepts such as objectivity, falsification, explanation, empirical testing, and reliability/validity, and precision. Throughout we focus on implications for research- and management processes, and we work extensively with cases and assignments related to individual studies as well as reviews and meta-analyses. The point of departure is contemporary standard management-relevant research in social sciences such as psychology, sociology, and organizational theory.
Throughout the course, we expect participants to evaluate knowledge, participate in class discussions, and write papers.
Learning outcome
A candidate who has completed this class should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills, and general competence.
Knowledge
After completing this course the student has
- advanced knowledge in fundamental quality principles of research in social sciences and how research relates to a manager's role.
- in-depth knowledge of how to critically classify, analyze, evaluate, synthesize, and apply state-of-the-art knowledge from several social science disciplines.
- in-depth knowledge of the elements of contemporary social science research.
Skills
After completing this course the student can
- analyze and extract, evaluate, and apply existing knowledge in social sciences and management.
- critically discuss contemporary knowledge within business and leadership.
- present, discuss and write critical evaluations of the quality of contemporary knowledge within business and leadership.
- analyze methodological issues and make a research plan.
General competence
After completing this course, the student can:
- analyze and formulate methodological problem statements for relevant academic, business/professional, and research ethical issues.
- based on rhetorical principles communicate, present, and argue for the result of independent work, like analyses, methodology, and conclusions, to various audiences like specialists and the general public.
- apply his/her knowledge and skills in new areas in order to carry out advanced assignments and projects.
- on a sound social science scientific basis, continue life-long learning in research, management, and life in general.
Required prerequisite knowledge
Exam
| Form of assessment | Weight | Duration | Marks | Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Individual home exam | 1/1 | 7 Days | Letter grades |
Coursework requirements
- 2 group-based cases/assignments
- 1 Individual case/assignment
These cases/assignments must be passed before the exam.
Course teacher(s)
Course coordinator:
Lukasz Andrzej DerdowskiMethod of work
Student-centered learning based on cases, lectures, seminars, discussions, and group-work.
Class attendance is not mandatory but highly recommended since the interactive class ambiance offers an efficient learning environment as well as a chance to acquire highly needed skills.
Overlapping courses
| Course | Reduction (SP) |
|---|---|
| Research Methodology and Philosophy (MHR180_1) | 5 |
| Applied social science research methods (MHR115_1) | 5 |
