Prospectus

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Designing research for science and society

Course
2022-2023

Description

In this course the student gains insight in the creative process of setting up and designing real world research in all its facets. The course will include topics such as writing research questions, matching design to question and exploring research methods. Particular attention will be given to applied research in real world settings. The course goes further than research methodology and also includes for example embedding in existing lines of research, networking, financial and management planning, and ethical review.

During the course the student will work on a grant proposal for a substantial piece of research on a topic of the student’s own choosing. It is not required to actually submit the proposal, but it is expected that the proposal matches that standard. Several masterclasses will be organized around the course’ themes. Students will give several short updates / presentations of their progress. The course will be concluded by an individual presentation and interview about the developed grant proposal by a mock grant panel.

Course Objectives

After successfully completing the course, the course the student should be able to:

  • Formulate their own research questions

  • Describe the relevance of the research to the practice of Education and Child studies; that is, argue its impact on science and society

  • Choose, describe and defend in public research methods appropriate to the research question

  • Navigate between and appreciate the different approaches in different academic disciplines

  • Make ethical considerations about the research methods, and implement these considerations into the design

  • Draw up a budget, management plan including valorization plans

  • Defend the research design in public.

Timetable

For the timetable of this course please refer to MyTimetable

Mode of instruction

Seven 2-hour interactive master classes and a mock-panel session (2-4 hours). During the interactive master classes, a number of topics in designing research pertaining to the course objectives is discussed. Some additional instruction may also be given in video presentations on Brightspace in preparation for the master classes.

Parallel to the master classes, students work on an individual research design in the format of a grant proposal. Students will provide each other with formative feedback on their proposals based on a set of pre-determined assessment criteria and will give several short updates / presentations of their progress.

The course will end in a final meeting (4 hours), where students will present their proposals before a mock review committee.

Assessment method

Students will receive a final grade based on their research proposal (75%) and a presentation/interview (25%). Both grade components should be a pass grade (5.5 or larger). Partial (pass) grades cannot be carried over into the next academic year.

In the case the proposal and/or presentation/interview is deemed insufficient, the student will be given one opportunity to fulfill the requirements to a satisfactory level within a time frame set by the instructors. Participation in the course meetings is mandatory and failure to participate may lead to additional assignments set by the instructors.

Brightspace

During this course Brightspace is used.

Reading List

  • Robson, C & McCartan, K. (2015). Real world research. Chichester: John Wiley & Sons Ltd

  • Additional materials provided on Brightspace.

Registration

Education
Students must register themselves for all course components (lectures, tutorials and practicals) they wish to follow. You can register via My Studymap up to 5 days prior to the start of the course.

Exams
It is mandatory for all students to register for each exam and to confirm registration for each exam in My Studymap. This is possible up to and including 10 calendar days prior to the examination. You cannot take an exam without a valid pre-registration and confirmation in My Studymap.

Carefully read all information about the procedures and deadlines for registering for courses and exams.

Contact information

The course manager of this course is dr. Harold Nefs