Research-based Development (5 cr)

Evaluation scale

Pass/Fail

Objective

Purpose of the course
The purpose of this course is to understand the meaning of research-based development and to get one's own toolkit for development activities

Competences:
Ethics
Proactive development
Learning to learn

Learning outcomes
After completing this course, you will understand the difference between scientific research and research-based development. You understand the principles of research-based development and its methodological starting points. You know the process of research-based development. You master and are able to apply some working life development methods in development activities at your field of practice. You understand the importance of research ethics and good scientific practice in research-based development.

Content

The starting points and methodology of research-based development
Research ethics and the responsible conduct of research
Process and management of research-based development
Research and development methods, data collection and data analysis
Assessment as part of research-based development

Materials

Toikko, T. & Rantanen, T. 2009. Tutkimuksellinen kehittämistoiminta. Tampere: Tampereen yliopistopaino
Ojasalo, K., Moilanen, T. & Ritalahti, J. 2015. Kehittämistyön menetelmät. Uudenlaista osaamista liiketoimintaan. Helsinki: WSOYpro

Teaching methods

The teaching methods for the course are:

Lecture
Collaborative work
Pair and group discussions
Independent study
Exam
Learning assignment
Thesis topic proposal

Employer connections

A development project plan will be created during the course to improve working life.

Exam schedules

Online exam in spring 2026. The student has two retake opportunities.

Student workload

On-campus day: 10 hours
Learning assignments: 47,5 hours
Studying course materials: 37,5 hours
Exam preparation: 40 hours
Total: 135 hours

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

You are able to compare the differences and similarities between research-based development and academic research. You are able to analyse development processes and methods suitable for your development topic, and reflect on and assess their suitability with the help of literature. You understand the significance of research ethics in research-based development. You can develop a topic proposal for your thesis.

Further information

The course assessment is based on evaluation criteria derived from the learning objectives.

The exam is graded on a pass/fail scale.
The development project plan is graded on a pass/fail scale.
The elevator pitch is graded on a pass/fail scale.
The topic proposal is graded on a pass/fail scale.