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2025/2026  BA-BISHO4001U  Business Research Methodology

English Title
Business Research Methodology

Course information
Language English
Course ECTS 7.5 ECTS
Type Mandatory
Level Bachelor
Duration One Quarter
Start time of the course Second Quarter
Timetable Course schedule will be posted at calendar.cbs.dk
Study board
Study Board for Global Relations
Course coordinator
  • Ayca Uygur Wessel - Department of International Economics, Goverment and Business (EGB)
Main academic disciplines
  • Methodology and philosophy of science
Teaching methods
  • Face-to-face teaching
Last updated on 26/05/2025

Relevant links
Learning objectives
On completion of the course, students should be able to:
  • Demonstrate a basic understanding of ontological and epistemological assumptions commonly applied in contemporary social science research, especially in the area of international business
  • Assess the strengths and limitations of different methodological decisions in relation to a given research problem.
  • Account for the relationship between theory, method, data collection, and analysis by producing a research design that is able to link a research question to methods and empirical data.
  • Iindependently apply basic methodologies in business research, including (1) the selection and critical evaluation of secondary sources and (2) methods, and techniques for the collection of primary data, such as interviews, questionnaires, text analysis, and methods of direct observation.
  • Evaluate the quality of research in terms of reliability and validity or other relevant criteria
Course prerequisites
This course is offered to students following GLOBAL SCLM. It is co-taught with the BSc IB course BINBO1331U Business Research Methodology
Prerequisites for registering for the exam (activities during the teaching period)
Number of compulsory activities which must be approved (see section 13 of the Programme Regulations): 2
Compulsory home assignments
Group written assignment of 2 pages,4-5 persons to be graded approved/not approved.
Examination
Business Research Methodology:
Exam ECTS 7.5
Examination form Home assignment - written product
Individual or group exam Individual exam
Size of written product Max. 10 pages
Assignment type Report
Release of assignment An assigned subject is released in class
Duration Written product to be submitted on specified date and time.
Grading scale 7-point grading scale
Examiner(s) One internal examiner
Exam period Winter
Make-up exam/re-exam
Same examination form as the ordinary exam
Course content, structure and pedagogical approach

This course aims to equip students with the necessary tools for carrying out and evaluating some of the most commonly used strategies in international business research. Grounded in critical thinking regarding theoretical assumptions and ethical values, the course provides hands-on knowledge in formulating relevant research questions, as well as collecting, analyzing and reporting on different types of data relevant for business research. 

 

There are several components to the course:

 

1. Philoshophy of science discussions introduce the students to the most essential key concepts and positions in philosophy of science and strengthens their epistemological and ontological awareness.

 

2. Lectures on common research design strategies help the students understand the link between research questions, theoretical direction and empirical material, by focusing on experimental, cross-sectional, temporal, single and multiple case study designs.

 

3. Discussions in data collection and analysis develop key skills in the collection and analysis of different types of data by covering diverse techniques, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, observation, and text/document analysis.

 

The course uses a combination of lectures, assignments and exercises with interactive elements that incorporate application of skills. In line with the Nordic Nine principles, the course seeks to substantially develop learners' curiosity and analytic skills when working with different forms of data.

 

Nordic Nine

 

The course seeks to develop CBS students’ transformative capabilities by addressing in particular the following Nordic Nine principles:

 

Learners are encouraged to consider on societal challenges in a broad and expansive context by creating and co-creating deep knowledge about micro-level issues that are relevant to modern, international business practices (NN1). During this process, they develop skills in collecting and analyzing data by reflecting upon quality, credibility, authenticity of different types of data and data sources. They are encouraged to be curious about working independently and embracing the complexity and ambiguity of real world challenges and data (NN2).

 

Critical reflection is a key component of the course, as the learners make sense of the ethical dilemmas encountered in various research settings and develop the necessary leadership values to navigate and overcome them. They practice leadership skills as a part of their group work and collaboratively reflect on issues that are relevant for future business leaders, including their own epistemological and ontological positions and assumptions that guide their decisions (NN5, NN6).
Research-based teaching
CBS’ programmes and teaching are research-based. The following types of research-based knowledge and research-like activities are included in this course:
Research-based knowledge
  • Classic and basic theory
  • Teacher’s own research
  • Methodology
Research-like activities
  • Development of research questions
  • Data collection
  • Analysis
Description of the teaching methods
The course consists of lectures, group and plenary discussions, and in-class exercises. II has been designed on the premise that active involvement is the most effective way to acquire the skills outlined in the learning objectives, on the expectation that all students have prepared the readings for each class, and are prepared to actively participate in the class-room discussion.
Feedback during the teaching period
Several feedback opportunities are provided in the course:

1. Lectures incorporate small problem-specific tasks, followed by in-class wrap up and feedback.

2. Exercises offer extensive feedback opportunities by allowing group work, followed by feedback on specific in-class assignments, mainly in the area of research design, data collection and analysis.

3. The students are encouraged to book office hours with relevant instructors to test their ideas and bring up questions.

Student workload
Lectures 24 hours
Class-room exercises 3 hours
Reading 60 hours
Preparation of group assignments 10 hours
Preparation of individual assignment 110 hours
small group exercises 2 hours
Expected literature

Expected literature will be published on the course syllabus and the course's Canvas page, prior to semester start.
Last updated on 26/05/2025