Research Methodology

Problem- and project-based learning (PBL) is a key pedagogical approachto teaching since it helps students become effective real-lifeproblem solvers in organisations. Problem-based learning emphasisescooperative learning. Students actively participate in theirlearning process as they choose theories, models, and methods thatthey consider to be necessary to solve the “real-world” problem thatthey have agreed to address (under the guidance of competent andexperienced supervisors).At Aalborg University we have observed that students who havebackgrounds in traditional forms of university education find thisproblem-based pedagogy highly challenging. It is in this contextthat we see the contribution of John Kuada’s book: Research Methodology– A guide to University Students. The book provides a “handholding”guide to students that do not have any, or only very little,previous experience with problem-based learning.A major strength of the book is the simplicity and straightforwardnessof the language used. This approach is quite inviting andprovides students a friendly introduction to relatively complex ideasand methods. The book speaks to students directly and therefore encouragestheir engagement in the process of learning about howthey can justify the various choices they make in their project workprocess.The book draws on Professor John Kuada’s many years as lecturerand supervisor for students in the department of economics andbusiness administration, and I believe that the book will serve as auseful reading for any students who are looking for a step-by-steppathway for their project work.