Data Collection and Data Quality

On completion of the course, students will be able to:

1. describe and critically evaluate the underlying philosophical underpinnings of different methodological research paradigms in relation to a specific research problem
2. describe and assess the methodological implications of different research paradigms in relation to a specific research problem
3. identify, analyse, and evaluate different types of data and approaches to data collection with respect to data quality and methodological appropriateness
4. describe, evaluate, and apply ethical principles in the conduct of research
5. describe and assess relevant policies, laws, and regulations concerning data collection, storage, and sharing in relation to a specific research problem
6. justify and design a data collection strategy tailored to an identified research problem. 

The course covers various types of data and forms of data collection, such as survey data, time series data, demographic registry data, sensor measurements, data collection for qualitative analysis, sampling analysis, and experiments. It also addresses underlying philosophical perspectives and research methodologies and their relation to these types of data. The analysis of data quality, ethics, and choice of research methodology is integrated into a project that focuses on data collection. Dimensions of data quality, established standards for data quality according to recognised organisations, and the importance of metadata are discussed. The course also includes an ethical approach to data collection, data storage, data transfer, and data analysis within research.

• Written report on an individual project
• Lab reports
• Individual written assignments

The Swedish grades U–G.

Replaces MIKR002.