Entry requirements

Introduction to Method and Knowledge Production in Russian and Eurasian Studies, 5 credits

Learning outcomes

After the course the student should be able to:

Knowledge and understanding

• account for different methodological approaches and methods of research in the Social Sciences and Humanities and reflect on the advantages and limitations that particular research methods presuppose;
• critically discuss the relation between theory and methodology;
• describe and compare methods which have commonly been used in Russian and Eurasian studies; 

Competence and skills

• select and apply appropriate methods to a particular research problem;
• explain and argue for the selection of a particular method; 

Judgment and approach

• reflect on the implications that the chosen methodology has on the research results and analysis;
• reflect on the ethical implications of research methods;
• critically evaluate and analyse methods in cross-disciplinary research;

Content

Building on the preceding course on method and knowledge production, this course provides deeper knowledge of some of the most common methods in the Social Science and Humanities. Special emphasis will be placed on the choice and application of different methods in relation to the research question of the study and possible theories. Students will also reflect on the selection and application of methods in cross-disciplinary research. The course raises students' awareness of some of the most common ethical issues associated with different research methods.

Instruction

The course comprises of lectures, seminars and workshops.

Assessment

The course is examined by active participation in seminars and a written assignment.

If there are special reasons for doing so, an examiner may make an exception from the method of assessment indicated and allow a student to be assessed by another method. An example of special reasons might be a certificate regarding special pedagogical support from the University's disability coordinator or a decision by the department's working group for study matters.