General provisions

The course is included in the Master's Programme in Religion in Peace and Conflict.

Entry requirements

Bachelor's degree where the main field of study consists of at least 90 credits in Theology, History, Philosophy, Linguistics, Educational Science, Social Science or the equivalent. The main field of study should include an individual assignment worth at least 15 credits.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the course, the student is expected to be able to:

• discuss questions of scientific theory;
• know how discourse analysis can be used in research;
• explain Participatory Action Research and critically discuss preconditions and results;
• discuss theoretical frameworks and choices of method in different research projects;
• argue and take a position on ethical issues related to research.

Content

The course trains students in critical thinking and the application of relevant research methods in order to solve problems concerning religious and ethically based engagement. The main theories and methods studied are action research, discourse analysis and qualitative and quantitative behavioural science methods. The course also develops students' ability to take a position on ethical research problems.

Instruction

The course can be taken as a distance-learning course. There are a few days compulsory attendance on campus. Contact between teachers and students takes place via a course portal online.

Assessment

The course is assessed on the basis of active participation in seminar discussions and through oral and written assignments.

Transitional provisions

Students who have studied according to this course syllabus may be examined according to the same syllabus within two years of the course date. In special circumstances, a retake may also occur at a later date. Normally, teaching according to an older course syllabus will not be offered.