Research Methodology and Thesis Preparation (Online)
Forschungsmethodik und Vorbereitung der Masterarbeit (Online)
6 CPWinterEN
Contents
This module introduces strategies and approaches to the formulation of research problems and questions, literature reviews, and the selection and application of qualitative and quantitative research methods relevant to a student’s respective research focus. Based on individual research interests, the module guides students in their research design, data collection and analysis, ethical considerations, academic writing conventions, and the consideration of feasibility and relevance of their thesis work. It puts particular attention to the interdependence of research aims, conceptual frameworks, research questions, and empirical implementation. The module also provides assistance in considering thesis structures, the development of argumentation and academic citation practices. By means of a peer review process, students will gain the opportunity to present their thesis ideas and receive support in the development of a viable and well-grounded master’s thesis proposal.
Learning outcomes
Through attendance of this module, students develop the competencies required for the successful completion of a Master’s thesis. The module familiarises students with the range of research methods employed across the disciplines contributing to World Heritage Studies and supports them in formulating a coherent and researchable question. Students learn to design, plan, and carry out empirical research in a manner appropriate to their research question and within a feasible time frame. Particular emphasis is placed on situating individual research projects within relevant and contemporary theoretical debates, and on establishing a clear analytical relationship between empirical material, methodological choices, and conceptual frameworks.
Assessment
• Successive development of a coherent research design, including preparatory steps such as the production of a mind map or the writing of memos. (Scale depends on the individual research design and will be discussed in class), 50% • Presentation of the proposed research project in the seminar in the form of an academic presentation. (max. 30min), 50%
Literature (4)
- Maxwell, Joseph A. (2012): Qualitative Research Design: An Interactive Approach. Los Angeles et al.: Sage.
- King, Rachel & Trinida Rico (2024, eds.): Methods and Methodologies in Heritage Studies. London: UCL Press.
- Stig Sørensen, Marie Louise & John Carman (2009, eds.): Heritage Studies. Methods and Approaches. London & New York: Routledge.
- Waterton, Emma & Steve Watson (2015, eds.): The Palgrave Handbook of Contemporary Heritage Research. London: Palgrave Macmilllan.
Remarks
The module may be delivered in a hybrid format where appropriate.
Source: BTU's module description · retrieved 29 Sep 2026Original