Course Topics
Following an introduction to the epistemological foundations of qualitative social research, we will examine the principles of professional research practice with regard to quality assurance. In particular, we will discuss the importance of transparency, traceability, honesty and diligence in the research process. Building on this, we will address issues of research ethics, such as informed consent and data protection considerations. As part of this, there will also be a focus on reflecting on research involving vulnerable groups, as well as critically examining power and role dynamics within the research process. Using examples from academic research practice, the qualitative research process is then traced step by step. The course covers the development of research questions and research designs, the planning and implementation of sampling processes, and various forms of data collection, with a particular focus on qualitative interviews. In addition, methods of data preservation and data preparation – including the transcription of interviews – as well as key methods of qualitative data analysis, in particular qualitative content analysis and grounded theory, are outlined. Alongside the course modules, students develop their own exemplary research project. They formulate a research question and a research design, devise a corresponding interview guide and conduct exemplary qualitative interviews. The results of the project are presented as part of the oral examination. Furthermore, students reflect on and discuss their experiences of carrying out the research project against the background of the theoretical and methodological foundations covered in the course.

Teaching format
Lectures, project and team work, reading of literature and discussion

Educational objectives
- Basic knowledge of qualitative research - Basic knowledge of qualitative data collection - Development and realisation of a student research project - teamwork - Presentation of research results - The student knows the essential characteristics of qualitative research - The student is able to complete an introductory task in qualitative research in the form of a student research project.

Additional educational objectives and learning outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding Students will be able to: - describe fundamental concepts and the epistemological foundations of qualitative social research; - explain the quality criteria for qualitative research, as well as requirements relating to research ethics and data protection Applying Knowledge and Understanding Students will be able to: - develop a qualitative research question and plan a simple research design; - prepare, conduct and document qualitative interviews; - analyse qualitative data using selected methods. Making Judgements Students will be able to: - assess the selection of qualitative methods for different research questions and critically examine their implementation; - reflect on ethical and quality-related aspects of qualitative research processes. Communication Skills Students will be able to: - present and justify research questions, methodological decisions and research findings in a clear and comprehensible manner. Learning Skills Students will be able to: - design and carry out a simple research project independently and collaboratively; - critically reflect on their own experiences within the research process.

Assessment
Oral examination consisting of two parts: 1. The respective research teams present their research project, including the results. 2. Following the presentation, each team member is asked an oral reflective question about the research process.

Evaluation criteria
Assessment criteria: 1. Presentation of the research project (70% of the mark): - Accuracy of content and form in the presentation; - Structure and organisation of the research design and the interview guide; - Conduct of the interview; - Clarity of expression; - Teamwork skills. 2. Individual oral reflection on the research process: (30% of the mark) - Ability to present arguments; - Ability to analyse topics critically; - Ability to engage in self-reflection;