Research Methods in Ageing and Social Change II, 7.5 credits

Main field of study

Course level

Advancement level

Course offered for

• Master's Programme in Ageing and Social Change

Entry requirements

• Bachelor's degree equivalent to a Swedish Kandidatexamen
• At least 5 ECTS credits passed in Quantitative Methods or Statistics
• At least 5 ECTS credits passed in Social Sciences
• 37,5 ECTS credits passed from Master's Programme in Ageing and Social Change including at least 15 ECTS credits from the courses Ageing and Social Change as Interdisciplinary Social Science (7,5 ECTS credits) and Research Methods in Ageing and Social Change I (7,5 ECTS credits)
• English corresponding to the level of English in Swedish upper secondary education (Engelska 6)
  Exemption from Swedish

Intended learning outcomes

After completing the course, the student should on an advanced level be able to: 

• describe, apply, and demonstrate in-depth knowledge of the theoretical and structural bases of longitudinal data and relevant advanced statistical models and its characteristics as well as implications and challenges 
• describe and apply knowledge of multi-level and comparative analysis adding macro and meso-data to micro-data from survey and register data 
• independently use, plan, and manage longitudinal datasets for further analysis and be able to apply simple and advanced statistical analysis and models to longitudinal data 
• apply basic and advanced statistical analysis and statistical models on longitudinal data 
• use statistical software in the analysis of longitudinal data 
• describe, discuss, and reflect on correct and appropriate methods and results from longitudinal analysis in a scientifically appropriate format 
• apply knowledge of ethical aspects on working with longitudinal data 

Course content

In the course, the focus lies on theoretical concepts and practical applications. The knowledge is offered within longitudinal research methods and questions, together with an in depth understanding of advanced methods of comparative and time-sensitive multilevel research. Furthermore, an in-depth understanding for working with macro, meso and micro-data from survey and register data is offered. Statistical models of focus are within the framework of Structural Equation Models (SEM): Growth Curve Models, Linear Mixed models, and multi-level and comparative analysis.

Teaching and working methods

In the course a hybrid teaching model is used, where students meet simultaneously on site and online for lectures and work together in workshops, computer labs, and seminars. In addition, the student should conduct self-study and work with others in peer learning groups. 

The language of instruction and examination is English.  

Examination

Students admitted to the online programme are examined online, students admitted to on campus programme are examined on campus.  

• Active participation in seminars, grading scale: pass/fail 
• Active participation in computer labs, grading scale: pass/fail 
• Multiple choice quizzes (individual), grading scale: pass/fail 
• Written examination (individual), grading scale: ECTS 

For a passed final grade (E), a pass is required on all examinations and an E on the individual written examination. Higher grades are based on the individual written examination.  

Detailed information about the examination can be found in the study guide. 

If special circumstances prevail, and if it is possible with consideration of the nature of the compulsory component, the examiner may decide to replace the compulsory component with another equivalent component.

If the LiU coordinator for students with disabilities has granted a student the right to an adapted examination for a written examination in an examination hall, the student has the right to it.

If the coordinator has recommended for the student an adapted examination or alternative form of examination, the examiner may grant this if the examiner assesses that it is possible, based on consideration of the course objectives.

An examiner may also decide that an adapted examination or alternative form of examination if the examiner assessed that special circumstances prevail, and the examiner assesses that it is possible while maintaining the objectives of the course.

Students failing an exam covering either the entire course or part of the course twice are entitled to have a new examiner appointed for the reexamination.

Students who have passed an examination may not retake it in order to improve their grades.

Grades

Other information

Planning and implementation of a course must take its starting point in the wording of the syllabus. The course evaluation included in each course must therefore take up the question how well the course agrees with the syllabus. 

The course is conducted in such a way that there are equal opportunities with regard to sex, transgender identity or expression, ethnicity, religion or other belief, disability, sexual orientation and age.

If special circumstances prevail, the vice-chancellor may in a special decision specify the preconditions for temporary deviations from this course syllabus, and delegate the right to take such decisions.

Department