Syllabus

Research Methods and Scientific Practice in Social Work

Code
GSA2E3
Points
7.5 Credits
Level
First Cycle
School
School of Health and Welfare
Subject field
Social Work (SAA)
Group of Subjects
Social Work and Social Welfare
Disciplinary Domain
Social Science, 50%
Health Science, 50%
This course can be included in the following main field(s) of study
No main field of study1
Progression indicator within (each) main field of study
1G2F
Approved
Approved, 13 February 2020.
This syllabus is valid from 31 August 2020.
Revised
Revised, 13 September 2023.
Revision is valid from 13 September 2023.
Download as pdf To course page

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding

After completing the course, the student shall be able to:

  • demonstrate in depth knowledge of different forms of research design and methods appropriate for quantitative and qualitative approaches in research
  • demonstrate in depth knowledge of various forms of data analysis that are appropriate for quantitative and qualitative approaches in research
  • describe the strengths and weaknesses of different forms of research design and methods.

Skills and Abilities

After completing the course, the student shall be able to:

  • summarise current knowledge and identify an issue within a research area of relevance to social work
  • formulate research questions based on theory and previous research
  • choose a research design that is suitable for the selected research questions
  • plan a research study of relevance to social work.

Evaluation Ability and Approach

After completing the course the student shall be able to:

  • present and defend a research plan in terms of its suitability and feasibility
  • evaluate a research plan in terms of reliability and validity/trustworthiness.

Course Content

In the course, research methods that are relevant to social work are studied. The course involves developing and planning a research study on an issue relevant to social work, justifying and explaining the choice of study design, strategy and methods, and evaluating other students’ research plans.

Assessment

Active participation in seminars and written research plan.

Forms of Study

Lectures and compulsory seminars.

Grades

The Swedish grades U–VG.

  • Seminars, 1 Credit, U-G
  • Written research plan, 6.5 Credits, U-VG

Prerequisites

  • Introduction to Scientific Work 7.5 credits, The Importance of Social Policy for Social Work 7.5 credits, Welfare Measures and User Perspective 15 credits, Support, Rehabilitation and Enablement in Social Work 7.5 credits, Perspectives on Violence 7.5 credits and Investigation in Social Work 7.5 credits or Working Methods in Social Work 7.5 credits

Other Information

This course is part of the Social Work Programme.