B0136 - RESEARCH METHODS

Learning outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to understand fundamental research concepts and differentiate between qualitative and quantitative research approaches. They will learn to design structured research proposals, develop clear research questions and hypotheses, and evaluate research ethically and critically. Students will gain hands-on experience with tools such as NVivo, SPSS, Zotero, and Biblioshiny, enabling them to collect, code, analyze, and interpret both qualitative and quantitative data. Additionally, they will acquire the skills to conduct literature reviews, manage references, and present research findings effectively in both written and oral formats.

Course contents

The course "Research Methods" offers a comprehensive foundation in the principles and practices of academic research. Through a combination of theoretical instruction and practical application, students will explore the entire research process—from formulating a question to presenting findings. The course covers both qualitative and quantitative approaches, ethical considerations, and the use of key research tools and software. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the skills needed to design, conduct, and communicate research effectively across various disciplines.

 

• Introduction to research

Definition, types, and paradigms

Ethics in research

Analysis of research paper examples

• Structure of a research proposal

Components, budgeting, and timelines

Research questions and hypotheses

Research design and methodology

Criteria for evaluating a proposal

• Literature review

Purpose, sources, and strategies

Bibliometric analysis (Biblioshiny)

Reference management tools (Zotero, Mendeley)

Writing and structuring the review

• Qualitative research

Characteristics and methods (interviews, focus groups)

Sampling strategies and ethical considerations

Trustworthiness: credibility, transferability, dependability

Thematic coding using NVivo

• Quantitative research

Variables and levels of measurement

Descriptive statistics (mean, median, mode, SD)

Inferential statistics (t-tests, chi-square, correlation)

Validity, reliability, and sample size

Data analysis and interpretation using SPSS

• Communication of research findings

Written and oral presentation skills

Structuring and presenting results clearly and effectively

Teaching methods

The teaching method adopted in this course is a balanced combination of theoretical instruction and practical application. Lectures will provide students with essential theoretical frameworks and methodological foundations, while hands-on activities, case studies, and the use of research software will allow them to apply these concepts in real-world contexts. Through interactive discussions, group assignments, and individual exercises, students will actively engage with the research process, enhancing both their critical thinking and practical research skills.

Office hours

See the website of Novin Hashemi