Introductory description

The objective of the module is to familiarise the research student with design science research method and computational social science methods and tools, and to develop skills needed for conducting research whose aim is to invent methods and techniques for designing information systems that are effective and efficient.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

The sessions cover:

• Introduction to design science research frameworks and Computational Social Science
• Examination of design science research covering topics such as theory building, research design, survey research, experimental research, and modeling research
• Detailed evaluation and critique of sample work in design science research
• Network Analysis
• Sequence Analysis
• Critical realism and big data
• Predictive Analytics with Machine Learning

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Increased understanding of theoretical and methodological issues for investigating design science research method.

Indicative reading list

Reading lists can be found in Talis

Subject specific skills

Understand theoretical and methodological aspects of design science research method.
Understand basic data science and computational methods.
Demonstrate ability to independently research a topic related to design science research method.

Transferable skills

Critically evaluate a range of complex information and competing theories and methods to formulate independent viewpoints.
Write clearly and succinctly, displaying a high level of conceptual understanding, and with appropriate use of referencing.