Objectives
Research in Engineering frequently applies data gathering methods from the social sciences. Many PhD candidates in engineering include testing their ideas, models or products with potential users or experts in their research projects. This workshop aims at outlining how data needed for this kind of research can be gathered in a scientifically sound way.
We will discuss the following questions using practical examples:
- When do I choose my method and which methods are appropriate for my research?
- How do I structure an interview?
- How do I set up a questionnaire and how do I construct meaningful scales?
Contents
The workshop focuses on the following three themes:
- Different types of research with human subjects and methods of data gathering;
- Instrument development;
- Alignment of data gathering and data analysis;
- Planning of fieldwork.
Methods
The workshops use the following formats:
- short introductions to the themes followed by group work;
- exercises and the sharing of experience;
- take-home assignments and feedback;
Output
Taking part in the workshop will provide the participants with:
- understanding of the basic principle of social science methods of data gathering ;
- the ability to structure an interview or questionnaire ;
- the ability to formulate effective questions for interviews and questionnaires.
Participants
The workshop is open to PhD students in the data gathering phase of their research project. The minimum number of participants is eight, the maximum per group is fourteen.
Investment in terms of time and money
The course consists of five half-day sessions and an online follow up period of one month. The total study time (including preparation for the meetings, home assignments and on-line activities) amounts to 60 hours.
The fee for the course is € 800 (course materials included)
To register for the course, please send an email to e.arkesteijn-vanschaik@tudelft.nl
Period: a. Fall 2011
- 19-10 ⇒ 9.00 - 12.30 and 13.30 - 17.00
- 2-11 ⇒ 9.00 - 12.30 and 13.30 - 17.00
b. Spring 2012
- 15-2 ⇒ 9.00 - 12.30 and 13.30 - 17.00
- 22-2 ⇒ 9.00 - 12.30 and 13.30 - 17.00
Contact
Prof. dr. E. de Graaff, tel. + 31 (0) 15 27 86226 Email: e.degraaff@remove-this.tudelft.nl
Drs. M. van den Bogaard, email: M.E.D.vandenBogaard@remove-this.tudelft.nl
