Master Project Studio (5cr)

Objective

After completion of the course, you will:
- understand the structure and objectives of the master’s thesis
- be able to define the phenomenon under investigation
- be able to plan the implementation of the research process: understand the phases of research, construct a research plan, understand and make methodological choices, independently seek information/data related to the research topic, utilize literature from different sources
- understand the construction of a theoretical basis, the possibilities to combine the theoretical part and service design production/project, and the production of research results and conclusions
- be familiar with dealing with questions related to research reporting
- comment on research texts, actively engage in discussions, and evaluate presentations/works by other students
- articulate one's views verbally and in writing, providing reasoned arguments

Content

During the course, the students will:
• familiarize themselves with relevant scientific and methodological literature for their research
• do a data collection plan and collect data for the master’s thesis
• structure their research topic by writing an Introduction chapter for their thesis. This will work as a research plan for the study. The Introduction chapter includes the following:
- The subject of the thesis and its justifications: background of the research problem and key concepts
- Motivation for the study
- Preliminary objectives and research questions of the thesis
- Summary of the research methodology
- Structure of the thesis
• Present research plans
• Peer review other students’ research plans and give feedback

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

Fail: Performance is highly deficient or erroneous. The work may be based on serious misunderstandings.

Pass: Performance corresponds to the assignment, manifesting comprehension and a skill to analyse and justify.

Materials

Supplementary reading and other materials will be agreed upon separately during the course.

Execution methods

The following tasks are required to be completed in the course: Active participation in lectures. Successful completion of given tasks, presentations, and reflection and discussions of others’ work.

Accomplishment methods

Lectures and exercises 30 hours. Independent work 105 hours. Teaching profile: Online 1. This means that the course will be taught only remotely online with the help of Microsoft Teams.