EMER 6020 introduces the principles of qualitative methodology and the application of qualitative study skills
in organizational and business research. We begin with research ethics and research design,
then go on to review several qualitative research methods and analyse their benefits and challenges in
particular scenarios. Students develop a number of skills frequently used in qualitative research,
including developing research questions, interviewing and other means of collecting data,
using manual and electronic coding techniques to analyse the data, and evaluating and writing up the research. Class discussion and presentations define the classes.
After completing this course, students have a better understanding of how and why qualitative research is conducted in Business environments. Throughout the semester, they analyse the benefits and challenges of qualitative research, choose the appropriate methods for their own research needs, and develop basic skills.
Required texts
Eriksson, Paivi and Anne Kovalainen
(2008). Qualitative Methods in Business Research.
Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage. ISBN: 9781412903172
* Additional materials available online, varying by semester. Students must ensure
that they have a working library card and pin number for off campus
access to the library catalogue.
Course evaluation
Participation / in-class activities |
20% |
Group presentation and analytical report of 1 research method |
20% |
Basic skills development assignments |
total of 20% |
Individual research proposal |
40% |
Further details will be distributed in class with the expanded course syllabus.
Communication
There are a
number of ways to contact me. I am available anytime during the work week by phone or on the course
specific D2L site by email or posting.
A pdf of the compiled statistics from the CEQs for this course is available here. Feel free to email
me (Linda Cohen) with any questions you have. Other
addresses: