UV9102A – General course in Qualitative Research Methodology

Course content

The course in Qualitative Research Methodology gives an introduction to the fundamental principles of qualitative methodology and their applications. The course provides concepts and tools needed to consider the adequacy and suitability of different qualitative research methods relevant in the field of educational sciences.

The Qualitative Research Methodology course comprises two parts: an introductory part A which gives an overview of the current main directions in qualitative research and the standards for assessing the quality and credibility of such research, and part B (UV9102B) which expands upon this and deals in-depth with qualitative data and different forms of analysis. For candidates specializing in quantitative methods it is sufficient to take part A.

Part A is to provide an overview of different approaches to qualitative methodology and strategies for analysis and synthesis that draw upon these traditions. It also includes an informed discussion of how the credibility and quality of qualitative research methods can be assessed. The course gives priority to the issues of transparency, validity and reliability, as these apply to different qualitative methodologies.

Learning outcome

Upon completion of part A, students are to have acquired an understanding of different qualitative methodologies and their relative strengths and weaknesses. They will be able to evaluate qualitative research on relevant criteria, and the quality of the results of such research. The course is intended to strengthen the students’ competence in scientific reasoning and argumentation.

Admission to the course

PhD candidates at the Faculty of Educational Sciences will be given priority, but it is also possible for others to apply for the course. Applicants must have at least a Master`s degree.

Candidates admitted to the PhD programme at the Faculty of Educational Sciences should apply through Studentweb

Other applicants may apply using the application form for spring 2024 (opens December 1st)

Registration deadline: January 15, 2024.

Overlapping courses

• 2 credits overlap with UV9101A – Basic Course in Qualitative Research Methodology. General part. (discontinued).
• 1 credits overlap with UV9102AU.
• 1 credits overlap with UV9101AU.

Teaching

The course is based on lectures and seminars. Active contributions from the students in the form of discussion and short presentations are expected.

Students will be asked to present their critical reading of one empirical study from the reading list of the course.

Course dates, location and syllabus:

You will find the timetable and literature on the current semester website for this course (link with semester/ year under "Schedule, syllabus and examination date" at top).

Examination

3 credits for course participation (80% attendance is required) with course activities and an approved paper (3000 words). The paper should be a critical analysis of an assigned scientific work (such as a published article from a qualitative study), and must discuss the quality and validity of the assigned work.

Papers are to be submitted electronically in Canvas. More information will also be published in Canvas.

Grading scale

Grades are awarded on a pass/fail scale. Read more about the grading system.

More about examinations at UiO

• Use of sources and citations
• Special exam arrangements due to individual needs
• Withdrawal from an exam
• Illness at exams / postponed exams
• Explanation of grades and appeals
• Resitting an exam
• Cheating/attempted cheating

You will find further guides and resources at the web page on examinations at UiO.