Qualitative methods in public health science

This course introduces students to the main concepts and approaches in qualitative research, and familiarizes them with some of the methods most commonly used in the health field. It aims at equipping them with the needed competencies to elaborate pertinent research questions for qualitative inquiries, design a qualitative research study, and critically reflect on the possibilities and limitations of these designs, on ethical dilemmas, on their positionalities as researchers, and on research quality.

In the course, the students will plan and carry out a pilot study during which they will apply the theoretical and practical aspects of a qualitative research process such as: identify the research aim, choose the design and methods, identify and reflect on the ethical issues, create data collection tools, collect data, organize it, and carry out a basic analysis.

The course is based on a combination of readings, theoretical lectures, and a series of practical workshops and seminars that will accompany the students in the development of their pilot study plan.

The students can choose to work on a study question related to the final thesis in the program.

Lectures are given in English, but students who take the course as a freestanding course can chose to carry out practical assignments (for example formulate interview guide and written assignments) in Swedish.