General description

An introduction into methodology of quantitative research and ways of analysing quantitative data. Deeper understanding about one specific quantitative research method and practices of analysing data.

Learning outcomes

This course focuses on quantative research methods in general, and on specified methods such as regression and variance analysis. The methodology and the practices of quantitative research methods are discussed. The aim is to enable the students to reflect and use quantitative research methods.

Students will be able
o to understand the methodology of quantitative research methods
o to identify different quantitative research methods
o to analyse data with one specified method for examle regression or variance analysis

Contents

The course has three parts:
1) Introduction focuses on the methodology of quantitative research. Different ways to examine the data and understand results are discussed. Students learn how the research questions and findings are related to the scientific assumptions on which the research methods are based.
2) Students will examine one specific, established quantitative research method (regression analysis/ variance analysis/ factor analysis etc.). The focus will be on the methodological basis and the ways of analysing the data. The selection of the covered quantitative methods will be based on the interests of the students.
3) The analysis of the data will be exercised. Basic rules of quantitative research method are practiced with a data by step-by-step process. The end result will be a well-grounded argument based on the analysis.

Teaching methods

Introduction during the Intensive Program in Tampere, afterwards workshops and pair work supported by moodle.
Attendance obligatory.

Teaching language

English

Evaluation and evaluation criteria

Numeric 1-5.
Participation of the students in the discussions and debates, preparation of the pair work (10 pages; part 2) and preparation of an analysis paper (5 pages; part 3).

Belongs to following study modules