Course syllabus autumn 2007
Course syllabus autumn 2007
Title
Method and Theory of Science Course for IMER Master Level
Swedish title
Method and Theory of Science Course for IMER Master Level
Course code
IM612E
Credits
15 credits
Grading scale
UV / Fail (U), Pass (G) or Pass with Distinction (VG)
Language of instruction
English
Decision-making body
Board of Studies at the Department of International Migration and Ethnic Relations
Syllabus approval date
2007-12-14
Syllabus valid from
2007-12-14
Entry requirements
Students enrolled within the programmes SAIME or SAIMA.
Level
Advanced level
Main field
International Migration and Ethnic Relations
Progression level
A1N
Progression level in relation to degree requirements
Obligatory course within the framework of both the One-year and the Two-year Master’s Programme in International Migration and Ethnic Relations (IMER).
Course contents
Different scientific perspectives of a theoretical nature as well as various empirical approaches are examined, in such a way that the relationship between theory and method runs as a red thread throughout the module.
The module consists of two integrated sub-modules, which run concurrently for part of its duration.
Sub-module 1
This sub-module provides a broad illustration of theoretical scientific perspectives and empirical approaches; it also affords specialised knowledge of the key traditions within the history of ideas that have influenced theory building in the social sciences with regard to the production of scientific knowledge and our view of society. The sub-module consists of lectures and obligatory seminars where scientific texts are discussed, analysed, and presented both orally and in writing, with particular emphasis placed on methodological considerations.
Sub-module 2
This sub-module comprises a supervised field study, the purpose of which is to combine theory and practice in a specific research process. Principles of ethical research arising within the study of the humanities and sociology are considered, and the importance of ethical considerations within the empirical sciences is discussed. The field study is sandwiched with lectures and obligatory work groups whose performance is evaluated by means of both oral and written presentations.
Learning outcomes
Knowledge and understanding
After finishing the course, the student:
- can show a broad knowledge of and insight into different theoretical scientific perspectives, and can show in-depth knowledge of the relationship between different methodological approaches and the areas in which this experience can be applied;
- can show in-depth knowledge of the particular areas within the field of IMER in which quantitative and qualitative methods of research can be applied and
- can show knowledge of Malmö University’s perspectives: environment, gender, and migration and ethnicity.
Applying knowledge and understanding
After finishing the course, the student:
- can, with limited knowledge and within agreed timetables, show the ability to independently identify and formulate a problem for detailed consideration, and can apply satisfactory methodology in a specific research situation;
- can show ability, both orally and in writing, to convey the results of his or her own work, or the results of others, in discussion with various interested parties and
- can apply knowledge of Malmö University’s perspectives to issues pertaining to the study of the social sciences.
Making judgments and communication skills
After finishing the course, the student:
- can show in-depth ability to handle and evaluate research and research-related issues within a broad field of enquiry embracing the humanities and the social sciences, and with particular reference to the field of IMER; in addition, can show a critical approach to the process of knowledge production;
- can show insight into ethical issues raised in the research process, coupled with awareness of the possibilities and limitations of science, its role in society and our collective responsibility for how it is used and
- can show the ability to identify his or her need for further knowledge within the subject of IMER, and can take responsibility for the development of that knowledge.
Learning activities
The course consists of lectures, seminars and group exercises, as well as a week of field work, during which specific guidance is provided regarding data collection, application of knowledge and analysis. Students also have access to the university’s computer rooms and library to assist them in this work.
Assessment
Evaluation is carried out by means of a test to be completed at home, as well as via other obligatory exercises, which take place during seminars or in groups and which must be presented both orally and in writing.
Re-sit examinations
Students who do not pass the regular course exams have the minimum of two re-sit opportunities. Re-sits follow the same form as the original exams, apart from re-sits for group work, which take the form of individual written and oral assignments.
Course literature and other study material
Litterature:
Chalmers, A.F. (1999 revised) What is this thing called science? Open University Press (238 p).
Kuhn, Thomas (1996 3rd revision): The Structure of Scientific Revolutions. Chicago: The University of Chicago Press (192 p).
Lemaitre Georges, Thomas Liebig and Cécile Thoureau (2006) Harmonised statistics on immigrant inflows – preliminary results, sources and methods. OECD, June 2006 (24 pp.) www.oecd.org/dataoecd/61/7/37035672.pdf
Lemaitre Georges (2005) The Comparability of International Migration Statistics, Problems and Prospects. OECD, July 2005. (8 pp). www.oecd.org/dataoecd/60/44/36064929.pdf
Punch Keith F. (2004) Introduction to Social Research, Quantitative & Qualitative Approaches. London, Thousend Oaks, New Delhi: Sage Publications. (319 p)
Referenslitteratur:
Bailey, Carol A. (2007) A guide to qualitative field research, California: Pine Forge Press (120 p).
Bommes, Michael & Morawska, Ewa (eds.) (2005) International migration research. Constructions, Omissions and the Promises of Interdisciplinarity. Research in Migration and Ethnic Relations Series. Ashgate, Aldershot
Creswell, John W. (2003 second edition) Research DesignQualitative, Quantitative and Mixed Methods Approaches, London: Sage Publications (320 p).
Grbich, Carol (2006) Qualitative data analysis: an introduction, London: Sage (264 p).
Layder, Derek (1996) Understanding Social Theory. London: Sage Publications (230 p).
Roberts, Carol M. (2004) The Dissertation Journey. A Practical and Comprehensive Guide to Planning, Writing, and Defending Your Dissertation. London: Sage Publications.
Smith, Mark J. (2003 second edition) Social Science in Question : Towards a Postdisciplinary Framework, London: Sage Publications.
Social Research Update of the Department of Sociology of the University of Surrey. Web based contributions on a wide array of aspects of methods in social research, http://sru.soc.surrey.ac.uk
Additional literature of 700-900 pages will be added in collaboration with the course leader.
Course evaluation
All students are offered an opportunity to give oral and written feedback at the end of the course. A summary of the results will be made available on the school’s web-pages. The students are also given a possibility to offer feedback for each module.
Student participation takes place through the course council.