Sociology MA, Evaluation Methods, 7.5 credits

Aim

The aim of the course is to give an introduction to evaluation methods and to practical applications of such at various levels and in various types of settings. Examples from academic and other fields aim to provide an orientation of not just the methods, but the full process of evaluations.

Course objectives

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be equipped to:

• Motivate and argue for various types of evaluations with specific aims, argue for their possibilities, what implications can be drawn from them, what challenges and limitations they entail.
• Suggest appropriate methods and procedure of evaluations for specific situations, needs and commissions.
  
  
• Argue and reflect on ethical questions that come up in evaluations.
  
  
• Show ability to perform evaluations and present their results in appropriate ways.

Content

Inspections and evaluations occur in different contexts at different levels. Such evaluations are in high demand and require broad research skills and insights into the full process. Practical methods and approaches are taught in this course, and we discuss how, when and why various approaches are applicable in various situations The course starts with an orientation of where and what evaluations are performed. Various methods are reviewed, discussed, and challenged. Thereafter choices and treatment of various data sources are in focus. The subject of reform evaluations is treated, including outcomes, long term and short term, intended and unintended consequences, as well as direct and indirect effects.

Entry requirements

A bachelor's degree of at least 180 credits in social or behavioural sciences, of which a minimum of 60 credits in sociology. English course 6/English course B from Swedish Upper Secondary School (Gymnasium) or the equivalent.

Selection rules and procedures

The selection process is in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance and the local order of admission.

Teaching form

Teaching is carried out by lectures and seminars.

Examination form

1000: Seminars, 2 Credits
Grade scale: Two-grade scale
In the event of absence from a mandatory seminar, a completion task is given.

2000: Exam Paper, 5.5 Credits
Grade scale: Three-grade scale

The course is examined through a written assignment and seminars.

Criteria for assessment: see discipline specific criteria: https://www.miun.se/gradingcriteria

The examiner has the right to offer alternative examination arrangements to students who have been granted the right to special support by Mid Sweden University’s disabilities adviser.

Examination restrictions

Students registered on this version of the syllabus are entitled to be examined three (3) times within one (1) year according to this syllabus. Thereafter, the latest version of the syllabus applies.

Grading system

Three-grade scale

Other information

Course certificates, credit transfers, appeals etc. are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance.