Systematic literature studies and document studies from a social science method perspective

The course is given as a free-standing course.

The course takes a structured and concrete approach, which leads you through a proven process for working with systematic literature and document studies. These methods can be used both in an academic thesis and in professional contexts where large amounts of information may need to be compiled. The course covers the planning phase of the study, implementation and compilation of the texts studied, and gives you an understanding of the challenges that can arise with the methods of systematic literature studies and document studies. Through practical examples, clear aims, precise research questions, and theoretical frameworks, both methods are applied to current research.

On successful completion of the course the student will be able to:
Knowledge and understanding
• summarize knowledge about the purpose of conducting systematic literature and document studies
• discuss the benefits and limitations of systematic literature and document studies
• account for the possibilities and drawbacks of the systematic literature review and document study.

Competence and skills
• assess design possibilities for a systematic literature review and document study with a specific focus on social science issues.

Judgement and approach
• evaluate the relevance of a research question for a limited study with a focus on systematic literature review and for a document study
• critically evaluate and reflect on quality aspects of scientific data.

Teaching takes place in the form of web-based lectures and individual assignments.

Examination of the takes place through individual assignments and a final individual exam.

If a student who has twice received a failing grade for the same examination component wishes to change examiner ahead of the next examination session, such a request should be made to the department in writing and should be approved by the department unless there are special reasons to the contrary (Chapter 6 Section 22 of the Higher Education Ordinance).

If a student has received a recommendation from the University of Gothenburg for study support for students with disabilities, the examiner may, where it is compatible with the learning outcomes of the course and provided that no unreasonable resources are required, decide to allow the student to sit an adjusted exam or alternative form of assessment.

In the event that a course has ceased or undergone major changes, students are to be guaranteed at least three examination sessions (including the ordinary examination session) over a period of at least one year, but no more than two years after the course has ceased/been changed.

The grading scale comprises: Pass (G) and Fail (U).

The course is evaluated in writing. Results and any changes in the structure of the course must be communicated both to the students who completed the evaluation and to the students who will start the course.