Qualitative research methods (3cr)

Objective

Students will learn to explain the basis of qualitative research and to evaluate the applicability of qualitative data to various research topics. Students will learn various methods of analysing qualitative data, and apply them when analysing data. Students will also be able to formulate the knowledge arising from qualitative data into research results and report it in an appropriate way.

Content

- Principles and processes in qualitative research
- Limiting the scope of research and formulating research questions
- Types of qualitative research
- Qualitative data
- Methods of analysing qualitative data
- Reporting on the results of qualitative research
- Research reliability

Qualifications

No previous studies are required.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

Grade 1-2:
Students are able to describe some essential features of qualitative research and to analyse the stages of a qualitative research process in basic level. They know how to apply the knowledge they have learnt to analyse existing research, but their competence may still be narrow and superficial and their classroom activities are lacking.
Grade 3-4:
Students are able to describe essential features of qualitative research and to analyse and compare qualitative data collection methods, types of research and methods of analysis.They know how to apply the knowledge they have learnt to analyse existing research. They work hard and conscientiously in the classroom.
Grade 5:
Students have excellent command over the principles and methods used in qualitative research. Students are able to analyse qualitative data collection methos, types of research and methods of analysis from multiple perspectives and they know how to independetly and profoundly apply the knowledge they have learnt to analyse existing research. They work hard, conscientiously and very actively in the classroom.

Materials

- Hirsjärvi, Remes & Sajavaara 2009. Tutki ja kirjoita. Helsinki: Tammi.
Availability: http://tiny.cc/tenmdx

tai
- Ronkainen, Pehkonen, Lindblom-Ylänne & Paavilainen 2011. Tutkimuksen voimasanat. Helsinki: WSOY.
Availability: http://tiny.cc/zfnmdx
1. - 2. p. 2013
Availability: http://tiny.cc/ognmdx

- Eskola & Suoranta 1998. Johdatus laadulliseen tutkimukseen. Tampere: Vastapaino.
Availability: http://tiny.cc/qhnmdx

- Aaltola & Valli (toim.) 2007. Ikkunoita tutkimusmetodeihin II. Näkökulmia aloittelevalle tutkijalle tutkimuksen teoreettisiin lähtökohtiin ja analyysimenetelmiin. Jyväskylä: PS-kustannus.
Availability: http://tiny.cc/jjnmdx
3. uud. ja täyd. p. 2010
Availability: http://tiny.cc/aknmdx

- Other literature announced during the study course.

Teaching methods

Lectures, group work and assignment.