Qualitative research is a research strategy that emphasizes large bodies of unstructured data (textual, graphical, audio, and video data) that cannot be meaningfully analyzed by formal, statistical approaches. Despite differences, qualitative research approaches share at least the following two assumptions: (1) by systematically generating and analyzing data new theory can be discovered (inductive view), and (2) this theory stresses the understanding of the socio-economic world through an examination of interpretation of that world by its participants. Since each particular research method is informed by different philosophical traditions, this course will first introduce different perspectives on the socio-economic research process like positivism, interpretativism, realism, and postmodernism. Students will then learn how to set up a qualitative research project using different research design perspective, e.g. a case study approach, an ethnographic study, grounded theory, or a discourse analysis approach.
In addition, the course will tackle different qualitative methods of data collection and analysis, including a reflection about practical and ethical considerations.
The course is designed for doctoral students and advanced master's students with a strong interest in research. Throughout the course, initiative, creativity, and critical thinking on part of the students will be appreciated and encouraged. The course aims to facilitate students' progress in their thesis project.

- Students gain an overview of the qualitative research process
- Students understand the potentials and conditions of use for different qualitative research methods and designs
- Students understand the typical biases and problems which tend to affect qualitative researchers
- Students know how to design and conduct an own empirical research study
- Students learn to use assess and use different sources of qualitative data such as archival data, online data or interview data
- Students practice how qualitative data can be analyzed, interpreted and documented

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