Subject description MS110

Introduction to IS Research

2021 Fall

  • Subject code

    MS110

  • Version

    1

  • English name

    Introduction to IS Research

  • Subject points

    7.5

  • Study level

    Second cycle degree

  • Semester

    1st semester

  • Number of semesters

    1

  • Subject's supervisor

    Wanda Presthus

  • Decision

    Approved by the Program Council at Westerdals Oslo ACT.

Introduction

The course provides an introduction to the IS research field. Students will gain advanced knowledge of the key concepts and theories of IS research. They will acquire specialised problem-solving skills, being able to analyse and synthesize a research case. They shall take responsibility to a literature review of a specific IS topic.

Central topics include Information Systems as a research field, IS development, IS innovation, IS as sociotechnical and complex systems, Introduction to research methods in IS, Basic concepts and theories in IS, Literature reviews and writing style.

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge

The student...

  • is able to describe the main research streams of IS research
  • is able to describe key theories and frameworks on main IS topics, such as: IS and organizational change, IS adoption, IS development, and strategic use of IS
  • is able to discuss key issues and challenges of IS as a professional field

Skills

The student...

  • is able to analyse a business case with a framework
  • is able to find and assess relevant literature in research databases

General Competence

The student...

  • is able to compare and synthesise different research contributions
  • is able to write a literature review of a specific IS topic

Degree

Master of Science in Information Systems in Digital Business Systems

Master of Science in Information Systems in Management and Innovation

Master of Science in Information Systems in Business analytics

Learning activities

The course is structured in block mode for four weeks. The first two weeks will be a combination of lectures and presentations in. The two last weeks are for self-study and essay writing.

Student work load

Lectures and student guidance: 36 hours

Self-study: 76 hours

Preparation for presentation/discussion in class: 10 hours

Exercise: 28 hours

Assessment 50 hours

Total: 200 hours

Compulsory assignments

No compulsory activity in this course.

Examination

Exam type: Individual written home examination

Duration: 2-4 weeks

Grading scale: Norwegian grading system using the graded scale A - F where A is the best grade, E is the lowest pass grade and F is fail

Weighting: 100 % of the overall grade

Support materials: All support materials are allowed

Re-sit examination

Resit exam: Individual written home exam with a new assignment and a duration of 2 weeks.

Teaching materials

In addition to literature and other teaching material, scheduled teaching and other scheduled learning activities are always part of the syllabus.

Comments

The teaching will be given in English