PSY9250B ¨C Qualitative Research Methodology

Course content

This course in Qualitative Research Methodology combines theoretical readings, reflections and exercises. Improving qualitative craftsmanship requires hands-on practice and thick descriptions. The first day we go over key concepts in qualitative methods, including the incorporation of theory in projects, discussions on research design and ethics. ?The participants introduce themselves and their projects, and experiences and challenges of doing qualitative research in their own project. The second and third day we go over data collection and the handling of data (coding and analysis). We here elaborate the meanings of the concepts and methods presented the first day thought practical examples related to the participants¡¯ data collection. The course also sets aside time to get practical with data analysis. The final day we explore quality criteria in qualitative approaches, and how to demonstrate trustworthiness, as well as how to write up the results. Throughout the process we relate the discussions to the PhD candidates¡¯ on-going or planned projects, with different exercises and group discussions.

Learning outcome

The PhD candidates will gain a deeper understanding of qualitative research approaches, including the art of interpretation and descriptions. They will be familiarized with hermeneutic processes and ethical challenges as well as different strategies for data collection and approaches for analysis. Through the work with the quality criteria, they will also develop the skills to evaluate methodological strengths and weaknesses with qualitative projects, and argue well for choices made in their own projects. Exercises and group discussions will enhance qualitative craftsmanship, as the course is set up to be relatively practical. The course should strengthen the students¡¯ skills in critical reasoning and lines of argument related to qualitative methods.

Admission to the course

PhD candidates at the Department of Psychology need to sign up to the course in Studentweb. Please contact the administration if you have problems to sign up in Studentweb.?

PhD candidates at the Department of Psychology 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. Other candidates can apply to the course through this online form.

You will find the registration period in the online form.?

You need to register for PSY9250B if you only want to participate in the course and receive 1 credit point. If you want to receive 5 credit points, you need to register for both PSY9250 and PSY9250B.?

Teaching

Lectures, exercises and group discussions. Depending on the participants, the course will be taught in English or Norwegian.

This is an intensive course over four days, comprising a total of 24 hours (6 hours each day).

Examination

For registration in studentweb:

PSY9250B = 1 credit point for course participation for the full four days (80% attendance is required).

PSY9250 = 4 credit points

5 credit points for course participation for the full four days (80% attendance is required) and submitted paper on research design, including discussion of quality criteria for qualitative research (9-10 pages excluding references, Times New Roman 12, line spacing 1,5) based on the students¡¯ own doctoral project or a discussion of selected course literature.

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.