UV9118 – Observation methodology and Observation design
Course description
Schedule, syllabus and examination date
Course content
Observation is a central type of methodology in the educational sciences. This PhD course aims to introduce the participants to observation as a research method, by providing an overview of and insights into different types of observational methods and observation design.
The course is organized by the research group SISCO and the Department of Teacher Education and School Research, Faculty of Educational Sciences.
Learning outcome
Through this course students are to gain knowledge on
How to consider the arguments when choosing observation as method.
Different traditions in observational methodology, observation design, and approaches to analyzing data, such as video design; ethnographic design; structured/ pre-coded design; inductive design
Technical solutions for video design
Approaches and tools for analysis in observation methodology
Validity and reliability in different observation designs
Scientific theory on dilemmas concerning observation as a method
Ethical challenges concerning observation as a method
After the course the students are also to be able to
Develop their own observational abilities.
Consider and develop own observational designs
Admission to the course
The course has been developed for PhD candidates affiliated with the Faculty of Educational Sciences (UV), but others may also apply. As a minimum requirement, all participants must hold at least a Master`s degree.
Registration for autumn semesters opens June 4st.
PhD candidates affiliated with the Faculty of Educational Sciences will be given priority and are to register through Studentweb.
Others may apply through the application form autumn 2024 (opens June 4st).
Registration deadline: October 11th
Formal prerequisite knowledge
This course has been developed for PhD candidates affiliated with the Faculty of Educational Sciences (UV), but others may also apply.
It is recommended that all participants have completed an introductory course in qualitative methodology, equivalent to the mandatory course for PhD candidates at the Faculty of Educational Sciences.
Overlapping courses
- 1 credits overlap with UV9118U.
Teaching
The course combines theoretical and practical perspectives on observation, and different approaches to the analysis of observational data. During the course students are encouraged to discuss and reflect upon their research design and on different ways to use observation.
In the writing workshop the students will also receive comments on their designs and work on practical assignments using observation (this may very well be linked to your PhD project). This will form the basis of the submitted paper for students participating for 3 ECTs.
For more information please visit the current semester website.
Examination
Participation at lectures and course activities all three days and approved submitted paper: 3 credits.
Approved participation requires 80% attendance.
Papers are to be submitted electronically in Canvas.
More information will be available in Canvas.
More about examinations at UiO
- Use of sources and citations
- Special exam arrangements due to individual needs
- Withdrawal from an exam
- Illness at exams / postponed exams
- Explanation of grades and appeals
- Resitting an exam
- Cheating/attempted cheating
You will find further guides and resources at the web page on examinations at UiO.