Research Methods
The purpose of this course is twofold: First, students expected to acquire a better understanding of the conceptual, methodological and practical issues relevant to their research interests, and second, students are expected to prepare themselves for the actual writing of their Master’s thesis.
This course is only open for Master´s programme students at the Department of Sociology. The course is designed to generate proposals for master's theses in sociology and demography.
During the course, each student produces a thesis proposal, six to eight pages, including a shortlist of key texts. A draft is due midway through the course. The course teachers will provide feedback on this. A developed draft is due towards the end and ventilated at the workshop. The final proposal is then due on the last day of the term. Each student will provide feedback to the drafts of two other students at the workshop and turn in a written version of this. Seminars and workshop are compulsory (see schedule). There may be additional assignments related to the seminars.
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Course structure
Teaching format
The course includes three seminars at the beginning, an assignment with feedback and a workshop at the end. Otherwise, students work independently.
Cours PM- all you need to know
Research Methods 2023 (151 Kb)
Assessment
The grade is based on the quality of the master's thesis proposal, participation and the feedback on the developed drafts of other students. The main criteria are:
Clearly defined research question, motivation and feasibility.
Reviewing of relevant theories and previous research.
Critical engagement with the literature, including the required readings.
Convincing and logical argument, which leads to the research question.
Clearly described and feasible research design.
Clear description of data and methods as relating to the research question.
Clearly stated awareness of the ethical problems involved Constructive and well-argued criticism and evaluation of other student ́s proposals.Examiner
Senior Lecturer: Andrea Voyer
Professor: Magnus Bygren
Senior Lecturer: Sunnee Billingsley -
Schedule
The schedule will be available no later than one month before the start of the course. We do not recommend print-outs as changes can occur. At the start of the course, your department will advise where you can find your schedule during the course. -
Course literature
Note that the course literature can be changed up to two months before the start of the course. -
Course reports
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Contact
Directors of studies, all levels
Questions about all master's courses/programmes at the Department of Sociology: master@sociology.su.se
