Admission requirements
Not applicable
Description
Applied research methodology bridges theoretical methodology courses and the master thesis research. The course is geared towards empirical studies in ICT-related settings.
During the lectures and assignments, a research problem is addressed with the purpose of increasing hand-on experience with working on research problems. Generally, a research objective (including associated research questions) is decided on in the first session. Then, two sessions are spent on development of the measurement instrument (in past years we used a grounded theory approach in combination with interviews and, e.g., a survey). The two last sessions are used for testing of the measurement instrument by gathering data and integrating the results.
All sessions contain lectures on theoretical foundations of the applied scientific methods as well as group debates regarding implementation-specific challenges. Literature consist of a variety of scientific articles. The objective is to become better prepared for the master thesis project.
Course objectives
Learning objectives are threefold. First, students will be exposed to current research and research approaches and gain a better understanding of academic research in this area. Second, students will gain experience in analyzing and addressing a complex, scientific problem and the methods to address such a problem. Third, students will increase their ability to assess, translate and apply research to real-world situations in an organizational context.
Timetable
The schedule can be found on the Leiden University student website
Mode of instruction
8 lectures (2 hours each) spread over one semester. All sessions contain lectures as well as group debates.
Assessment method
A set of written assignments need to be handed in during the course. Typically, two or three smaller assignments and two larger assignments towards the end of the course. These assignments are graded.
Blackboard
Reading list
Literature (scientific papers) is handed out during the course.
Book: Gary Thomas "How to do your research project" (3rd Ed), Sage
Signing up for classes and exams
You have to sign up for classes and examinations (including resits) in uSis. Check this link for more information and activity codes.
There is only limited capacity for external students. Please contact the programme Co-ordinator
Contact information
Programme Co-ordinator: ms. Esme Caubo
Remarks
Also register for every course in Blackboard. Important information about the course is posted here.