Qualitative Research (5 cr)

Evaluation scale

0-5

Content scheduling

This course will be implemented during the autumn semester 2025
28.08.2025-17.12.2025 as a face-to-face learning.
The final date for assignment submissions is 17.12.2025. After this date, you cannot submit your assignments anymore.
The course ends on 17.12.2025.
Course assessments will be ready by 30.12.2025.

Objective

Purpose of the course
The aim of the course is to understand the meaning of qualitative research and to be able to use qualitative research and its methods in development and research practices at workplaces.

Competences
Ethical competence
Learning and information management competence
Entrepreneurship, innovation and working community competence

Learning outcomes
After completing the study level, you will have an overall picture of the theoretical foundations and methods of qualitative research.

You understand the strengths and weaknesses of qualitative research.

You recognize the suitability of different qualitative materials and methods for solving different types of research tasks.

You understand the importance of research ethics in qualitative research.

You have the skills to conduct and evaluate qualitative research and its suitability for research and development work in your field.

Content

In the course, you will learn about qualitative research approaches and methods, the basics of selecting and narrowing down your research topic, and formulating your research task. You will also learn about methods related to data collection and analysis, ensuring the reliability of the research, as well as ethical principles and practices.

Materials

Saldana, Johnny. Fundamentals of Qualitative Research, Oxford University Press, Incorporated, 2011.
Saunders, M.N.K., Lewis, P. and Thornhill, A. (2012) Research Methods for Business Students. 6th Edition, Pearson, London.
Mack, N., Woodsong, C., Macqueen K.M., Guest, G., Namey, E. (2005) Qualitative Research Methods: A Data Collector’s Field Guide, Family Health International, Research Triangle Park.
Turner, D. W., III (2010). Qualitative interview design: A practical guide for novice
investigators. The Qualitative Report, 15(3), 754-760. Retrieved from
http://www.nova.edu/ssss/QR/QR15-3/qid.pdf

Teaching methods

Blended model.

Face-to-face learning: Lectures, case study discussions, group project presentations
Virtual learning: individual assignments, group project

Exam schedules

There is no exam. The individual assignment is due a month after the last contact session.

Completion alternatives

You have the right to apply for recognition of your studies if you have prior learning (e.g. university studies completed elsewhere) that can be accredited towards the degree you are currently completing.

The recognition of prior learning is possible in three primary ways: accreditation (replacement or inclusion), recognition of informal learning and certification. More precise info: JAMK Degree Regulations, section 17.

Student workload

Lectures 20 hours
Preparing for the lectures 20 hours
Group projects 60 hours
Individual assignment 35 hours

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

Sufficient 1
The student knows the theoretical basis of qualitative research as well as the strengths and weaknesses. He or she identifies different types of qualitative data and methods that are applicable to different types of research tasks solving. The student understands how to evaluate qualitative research. The student knows how qualitative research has been applied in research and development.

Satisfactory 2
The student applies the theoretical basis of qualitative research. The student is able to identify and select the various kinds of qualitative data and methods, which are applicable to different types of research tasks solving. The student can to apply qualitative research in his/her own field.

Assessment criteria, good (3)

Good 3
The student master the theoretical basics, strengths and weaknesses of qualitative research. The student is able to analyze the suitability of different qualitative data and methods, in his/her own field research. The students can analyze the qualitative research and its suitability in his/her field of research and development.

Very good 4
The student is able to synthetize and summarize theoretical basics, strengths and weaknesses of qualitative research. The student is able to create new knowledge by utilizing qualitative data and methods. The student is able to create new knowledge by utilizing qualitative research in his/her own field.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

Excellent 5
The student is able to determine critically the reasons for the qualitative research information theoretical foundations and methods. The student evaluates strengths and weaknesses of qualitative research. Student can evaluate a variety of qualitative data and methods for the purpose of different types of research tasks solving. Student evaluates critically qualitative research and its applicability in their own field of research and development.

Qualifications

Research and Development study course or equivalent competence.

Further information

Your assessment in this course will come from four items, namely the group project (30% of the final grade), individual assignment (30% of the final grade), the case assignment (30% of the final grade), and active participation in class (10% of the final grade). The criteria for assessment are understanding key concepts and the ability to apply them in practice in a critical manner.