Learning objectives

The aim of this module is to introduce PhD students to a number of alternative research designs. The designs will be compared and contrasted in terms of 1) framing the research and resulting implications for research questions, 2) sampling issues, 3) data collection techniques, 5) data analysis and 5) presentation of findings, so that participants are able to choose the most optimal design for a particular study. Participants will work with developing their own projects’ methodology and deliver a methodology paper to pass the course.

Deliverables:

Before the course: Short project description

Hand in: research design description (max 3 pages) based on template 2 weeks prior to course start as we have to distribute these documents to the other participants.

Template: 

Describe i. Purpose, relevance, novelty, ii. Central Research Question, iii. Theoretical basis for your study, iv. Choice of research approach (ethnography, case study, narrative, action research, etc.), v. Sampling strategy, vi. Proposed data collection and analysis techniques.

After the course: Research design evaluation and amendment

Based on your learning from class amend your original research design description and resubmit. Minimum 5 pages, exclusively on the design.

A 5-10 page methodology section outlining the research design and strategy as well as a central research question and potentially related theory questions. The description should include arguments for the decisions made as well as how the project is anchored with regard to research paradigm.

Time and place

14-16 March 2022, Aarhus BSS, Aarhus University, Fuglesangs Allé 4, 8210 Aarhus V. Room: 2610-S530.

Teachers

• Professor Helle Neergaard (course coordinator)
• Associate Professor Birte Asmuß
• Professor Jakob Lauring
• Associate Professor Per Svejvig
• Associate Professor Carsten Bergenholtz
• Associate Professor Anne Bøllingtoft

The course will include the elements below:

• Introduction to philosophy of science and their relation to each other.
• Choosing a research design and strategy, paradigmatic considerations, developing a central research question.
• Introduction to the predominant approaches within our fields: case studies, ethnography, action research, grounded theory and narrative research.
• Developing your own research design, trouble-shooting projects and developing own research design.

Schedule and literature

Application

Deadline for application: 14 February 2022. Please download and fill in the application form. The application should be sent by email to: Department of Management, Aarhus BSS, Aarhus University, att. Lisbeth Widahl. Please note that your application is binding.

Fee

External participants will be charged a fee that covers lunches and refreshments (for more information, please contact Lisbeth Widahl). Participants will have to make their own arrangements regarding travel and accommodation.

Credits

2.5 ECTS