Research and Development Methods

Structure Type: Course
Code: KA26YPSO02
Type: Compulsory
Level: Master
Credits: 5.0 points
Responsible Teacher: Esala, Jussi
Teacher Team: Lauhanen, Risto ; Holma, Heikki ; Tasanen, Tapani
Language of Instruction: Finnish

Course Implementations, Planned Year of Study and Semester

Curriculum  Semester  Credits  Start of Semester  End of Semester
B101-2014   1 autumn   3.0   2014-09-01   2014-12-31  
B101-2014   1 spring   2.0   2015-01-02   2015-07-31  

Learning Outcomes

The course will give knowledge and skills to understand scientific research process and development work needed in working life. The student can independently plan and carry out research and development operations. They are also able to evaluate critically research issues and are able to report research and development works.

Student's Workload

Total work load of the course 135 h: of which
- scheduled studies 45 h
- autonomous studies 90 h

Prerequisites / Recommended Optional Courses

No previous studies are required.

Contents

-The most commmon research and development work in Agr.For sciences
-Quantitative methods
-Qualitative methods, data collection and analysis, interview methods, analysis, confidence of analysis and results
-Planning and carrying out of empirical studies (exercise jobs)
-Methods of history studies, studies on organisation, case studies, performance rating of processes
-Scientific writing and reporting

Recommended or Required Reading

-Hirsjärvi, S., Remes, P. & Sajavaara (2009) Tutki ja kirjoita. 15. uudistettu painos.
-Alasuutari, P. (2001) Laadullinen tutkimus. 3. painos. Vastapaino.
-Heikkilä, T. (1999) Tilastollinen tutkimus. Hki. Edita. (tai uusin painos)
-Metsämuuronen, J. 2009. Tutkimuksen tekemisen perusteet ihmistieteissä. Jyväskylä: Gummerus
-David Silverman (2005) Doing Qualitative Research. 2nd ed. Sage Publications.
-Eskola & Suoranta: Johdatus laadulliseen tutkimukseen.
-Toikko, T. & Rantanen, T. 2009. Tutkimuksellinen kehittämistoiminta.

Mode of Delivery / Planned Learning Activities and Teaching Methods

-Lectures
-Essay, where the student ponder methodology questions for his thesis work

Assessment Criteria

Assignment and essay will be graded as approved / revised. Emphasis on guidance and evaluation is placed on the student skills to understand and use the research methods.

Assessment Methods

-Written assignment 30 %
-Essay 70 %

Work Placement

None

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