Table of contents

The course is connected to the following study programs

Teaching language

English

Recommended previous knowledge

UT-101, UT-107 UT-113, UT-114, UT-203, UT-204 and ME-107 or an equivalent course in research methods.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course, the student should be able to:

  • design a small research project on a chosen development topic in a specific geographical context, and carry out data collection
  • discuss how they have applied social science research methods and the strength and weaknesses of the approach and practical outcome
  • have knowledge of ethical standards and guidelines in research and how they apply to own project
  • apply skills in cross-cultural communication and reflect on its impact on research and international collaboration
  • take part in in communication and interaction with academics and students in cross-cultural settings and learn how academic cultures may differ according to context
  • discuss and critically assess their own role and experiences as student researchers in different cultural settings

Contents

During a fieldwork period of minimum three months, the student collects data to be used in their bachelor thesis (UT-201). The fieldwork is based on the students’ research proposal elaborated during the fifth semester. The overall purpose of the fieldwork is for the student to independently collect data according to established and accepted methodological and ethical guidelines of research. The fieldwork is also the basis of the field report handed in during the spring, prior to the completion of the thesis. Guidelines and requirements for the fieldwork report are announced in Canvas.

The fieldwork is usually conducted as part of an exchange programme with a collaborating university in the Global South, such as Tanzania, Uganda, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, or Bolivia. By application, fieldwork in other countries may be allowed, provided that a set of criteria are fulfilled. Fieldwork in Norway or other Western countries (Global North) is also an option. Students may conduct fieldwork in a Norwegian or other European contexts on topics related to e.g. immigration, inter- or cross-cultural relations, migration or humanitarian organisations/non-governmental organisations working within the field of development (SDGs, environment, political economy, rights-based approaches etc).

Teaching and learning methods

Students must attend compulsory seminars and meetings as part of the preparations for the field work. Group work will be part of the preparations for the fieldwork as well as afterwards, where students both present their own project and respond to peers. Seminars may also be given at the partner universities. Fieldwork is conducted individually or in pairs. Supervision will be provided. Estimated workload is 405 hours.

Examination requirements

A minimum of two compulsory seminars (one prior and one after the fieldwork) must be attended to pass the course. Students are also required to present a research proposal to their assigned supervisor prior to the fieldwork. More information will be announced in Canvas.

Examinations

The field report should be +/- 5000 words and a list of its criteria and requirements will be published in Canvas at the start of the semester. The field report can be done individually or in pairs and will be graded pass/fail.

Student evaluation

The person responsible for the course decides, in cooperation with student representative, the form of student evaluation and whether the course is to have a midway or end of course evaluation in accordance with the quality system for education, chapter 4.1.

Reduction of Credits

This course’s contents overlap with the following courses. A reduction of credits will occur if one of these courses is taken in addition:

Course Reduction of Credits
UT-301 – Field Work, methods and practical training. 15
Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Oct. 15, 2026 9:16:23 AM