Research Methods

After completing the course, the student knows the general principles of scientific research and the practices of scientific methodology. He/she can identify and describe the main research approaches such as qualitative, quantitative and design science, and choose the appropriate one for his/her research problem in master’s thesis. The student can apply basic research methods and search for more information for learning and applying new research methods. He/she is also able to evaluate the methodological quality of a research publication.The student is able to produce a research proposal that is based on a research method (written skills). The student is also able to consider the role of scientific knowledge production in society (lifelong learning).

Additionally, the course develops:

• Problem-solving and decision-making: Ability to solve problems and make decisions regarding research methods for students' theses.
• Ethics, responsibility, and sustainability: Understanding ethical practices in design research methods.
• Digital skills: Learning to apply software in solving quantitative problems in the quantitative module.

• Mark Saunders, Philip Lewis, Adrian Thornhill (2007 or older) Research Methods for Business Students, Pearson.
• Zikmund, Babin, Carr, Griffin 2014, Business Research Methods, 9th edition, International Edition.
• Hevner, A.R., March, S.T., Park, J., and Ram, Sudha, (2004) "Design Science in Information Systems Research," MIS Quarterly (28:1) March 2004, pp. 75-105.
• Peffers, K., Tuunanen T., Rothenberger M.A., and Chatterjee S. (2007) “A Design Science Research Methodology for Information Systems Research”, Journal of Management Information System (24:3), Winter 2007-8, pp. 45-77.
• Scientific articles on research approaches and methods

Responsible Unit: School of Technology and Innovations
Five places have been reserved for Open University students for this implementation.