Academic ResearchLaajuus (5 cr)

Objective

The students perceive research work as a part of professional expertise. They are able to identify and delineate meaningful development targets and questions within their own field and activities. They can analyse information, the truth and the conceptions related to reality. They can perceive the background hypotheses of research, the various stages of the research process, and different alternatives for data collection. The students know the ethical principles and value basis of their field and can apply the principles of professional ethics. The students master the methods and process of data collection. They can acquire and process the data available in general information sources, as well as in field-specific sources, and evaluate the data they have collected. They can perceive wholes. They can apply the existing information and procedures of their field to research and development activities. The students can produce a clear, well-structured report in formal style. They know the characteristics of investigative writing, the structure of the thesis report, and related writing practices.

Content

The bachelor’s thesis process, the requirements set for the thesis, and characteristics of investigative writing. Research data acquisition and statistical concepts as part of information literacy. Scientific activity and thinking, the application of research data as part of professional competence. Field-specific information sources. The principles of professional ethics. The nature of knowledge and reality, the differences between scientific and everyday thinking, factors determining the choice of research approach. The structure and writing practices of the thesis report. Further development of writing skills.

Qualifications

Basic computing skills, in particular, word processing and spreadsheet skills, and the ability to write in formal style

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

Inexperienced performer 1-2
The student can collect information from field-specific information sources and create a research plan and a formally acceptable research report.

Developing performer 3-4
In addition to the aforementioned:
The student can choose the right research methods for different types of research assignments. They are able to analyse qualitative and quantitative research data and form distinctive results and needs for further research based on the data.

Competent performer 5
In addition to the aforementioned:
The student can produce innovative solutions to R&D needs and masters the processing of a large volume of data, as well as structurally and linguistically clear reporting.