AHEAD

• ability to understand the philosophical foundations of information systems research
• ability to understand the implications of ontological and epistemological choices on research methodology
• ability to appraise quantitative vs. qualitative IS research
• ability to design either a quantitative or qualitative research project
• ability to analyze issues and challenges of researching IS in developing economies
• ability to articulate the components of a doctoral dissertation

Information systems research is influenced by both social and physical (natural) science techniques and is by necessity multidisciplinary requiring a socio-technical approach. In the context of developing economies in particular, there are a number of methodological challenges that IS researchers are likely to encounter. This course, therefore, covers topics such as philosophical approaches to IS research; IS and epistemological paradigms; quantitative, positivist research methods in IS; qualitative, interpretive methods in IS; action and design research in IS; discussion of issues in research design, conceptualization, data gathering, and analysis specific to IS research in developing economies; components of a doctoral dissertation. At the end of the course, student will be able to clearly articulate their ontological position, make informed epistemological choices, define and describe essential characteristics of quantitative vs. qualitative research, formulate a rigorous either quantitative or qualitative research design, evaluate and interpret the methodological challenges of researching IS in developing economies.

Mode of Delivery:

• Lecture, Student led seminars, Case studies, Guest speakers
  

Assessment:

• Assignments, exams, and term paper