Research Methods for Analyzing Complex Problems

Doel vak

The objectives of this course are:

• To understand the differences between beta- and gamma research;
• To acquire insight and understanding of a real-world research process, including knowledge of the character of complex societal issues and the needs, advantages and disadvantages of real-world research;
• Being able to create an adequate research design for the investigation of a specific complex societal problem.
• To acquire insight into relevant research methods (both quantitative and qualitative) to address complex societal problems, their underlying theoretical concepts and their relative strengths and weaknesses;
• Being able to apply these various research methods in a specific societal context;
• To analyze and interpret qualitative findings;
• To acquire insight into reflexivity on the process of doing research in the real-world

Inhoud vak

Contemporary societies increasingly face complex social problems, such as climate change, HIV/ AIDS or ethnic and religious diversity. These complex problems involve a variety of social actors: policy-makers, professionals, NGOs, industries, science and, of course, the public at large. Addressing these complex issues demands an approach that investigates, analyzes and integrates the positions and knowledge of different actors.

This course offers an (advanced) introduction to various research methods used in real world research, including questionnaires, surveys, semi-structured interviews, and focus groups. These methods are commonly used in research into complex problem contexts, communication and opportunities for intervention. Strengths and weaknesses of each research method and technique will be discussed, as well as its possibility to be applied in different societal contexts.

Aanvullende informatie onderwijsvormen

Research Methods for Analyzing Complex Problems is a parttime course of eight weeks (6 ECTS). The total study time is 160 hours. Tuition methods include lectures, workgroups, workshops, group project work and self-study. The different elements have the following study time: - lectures 20 hours - workgroups and training 36 hours - examination 2 x 2 hours - project work & reading (self-study) Remaining hours Please note that attendance to the workgroup sessions is compulsory. If you miss one workgroup, with a good reason, you will receive an additional assignment. If you miss more than one workgroup session it is no longer possible to pass the project part of the course. Attendance to the lectures is highly recommended. In our experience, relying on self-study alone is insufficient to apply the theory of the lectures in the assignments of the workgroups, and to pass the exam.

Toetsvorm

The course grade is based on the group assignment 'research design' and two individual exams.
Individual Exams 60% of final grade
Group assignment 'research design' 40% of final grade

Vereiste voorkennis

A completed bachelor in the field of biology, health, life sciences or other natural sciences.

Literatuur

The literature of this course consists of selected scientific articles that are provided on Canvas, and the books:

• Verschuren, D.E. and Doorewaard, H. (2010). Designing a Research Project (2nd edition)Eleven International Publishing, the Hague. ISBN 978-90-5931-572-3.
• Gray, D.E. Doing Research in the Real World (3rd, 4th or 5th edition) Publications Ltd, United Kingdom.
  

An overview of additional literature per lecture will be provided on Canvas.

Aanvullende informatie doelgroep

The course ‘Research Methods for Analyzing Complex Problems’ is a compulsory course for first year master students ‘Management, Policy Analysis and Entrepreneurship in Health and Life Sciences’ (MPA).

This course is also part of the Studypath Science, Society and Communication. Students from the faculty of science can follow this course as an elective.

It can be followed as an optional course for other Life Sciences Master program students at the VU University, but only when taken in parallel with Analysis of Governmental Policy (AM_470571). Please contact the course coordinator prior to enrollment if you belong to this group.

Overige informatie

The entire course is in English.

Please note that attendance to all workgroup sessions is compulsory.

Attendance to the lectures is highly recommended. From our experience, relying on self-study alone is insufficient to apply the theory of the lectures in the assignments of the workgroups, and to pass the exam.

Contact: Durwin Lynch (d.lynch@vu.nl)

Use of Generative AI (GenAI)

This course follows the BETA Faculty policy on GenAI use. Use

GenAI responsibly and in line with the VU academic integrity policy and the VU recommendations on responsible use of GenAI.

Afwijkende intekenprocedure

Please note that Workgroups are formed through Canvas at the start of the course, based on the actual number of students that start with the course. It is not possible to enrol for workgroups otherwise - unless announced via Canvas.

Toelichting Canvas

This course makes use of Canvas.