UV9202 – Basic Course in Quantitative Research Methodology

Course content

This basic course will cover general themes relevant for all quantitative research, but with an emphasis on issues related to robustness and quality. A core theme will be how we can identify effects and predictions and how to test them empirically. It will be structured around two overarching topics, namely experimental research and observational studies. For experimental studies, the course will review applied examples concerning how to analyze experimental data (e.g. how to measure intervention effects, how to control for baseline differences, how to use effect sizes etc.). For observational studies, the course will explore examples of how to design correlational studies and analyze correlational data.

The course provides an overview of different research designs and accompanying analyses. The focus will be on how to build a bridge between research questions, hypotheses, study design, analyses, and the interpretation of findings. Issues of validity will be emphasized.

Learning outcome

Upon completion of the course, the students will have a basic understanding of the processes of conducting quantitative research, different research designs, and the accompanying analyses. They should also be able to evaluate the quality and validity of quantitative research. The course is intended to help the students to understand better the different methodological approaches applied in educational sciences and thus strengthen their scientific thinking.

Admission to the course

PhD candidates at the Faculty of Educational Sciences will be given priority, but it is also possible for others to apply for the course. Applicants must have at least a Master`s degree.

PhD candidates affiliated with the Faculty of Educational Sciences register through Studentweb. Others may apply through the application form published at the current semester site.

Registration deadline:?Please see the current semester page.

Overlapping courses

Teaching

The course will include lectures and assignments. Active contributions from the students in the form of discussion and task completion are expected.

Students will be asked to present a critical reading of one empirical study from the reading list of the course, and complete a simple hands-on assignment.

You will find the timetable and literature on the semester page for this course.

Mandatory course participation?(80% attendance is required).?

Examination

An approved written assignment. The assignment (5-7 pages, Times New Roman 12, line spacing 1,5) should be a critical analysis of a published empirical article, and must discuss the quality and validity of the study.

The assignment is to be submitted electronically in Canvas.

Deadline for assignment submission: The deadline will be published in the semester page.

Language of examination

English

Grading scale

Grades are awarded on a pass/fail scale. Read more about the grading system.

More about examinations at UiO

You will find further guides and resources at the web page on examinations at UiO.

Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) May 20, 2025 3:57:16 AM

Facts about this course

Level
PhD
Credits
3
Teaching
Spring and autumn
Examination
Autumn
Teaching language
English