Design Science Research in Information Systems, 7.5 cr (EIN002F)
Doctoral course at the Department of Informatics
The course is offered on the PhD programme in Informatics, to PhD students within the Research School Management and IT (MIT) and to external PhD students.
Course overview
The course focuses on the application and use of design science research in information systems. It provides knowledge on the fundamentals of methods and techniques classified as ‘design’ including artifact design, development, and evaluation. It also includes a discussion of the concepts of design, the IS artifact, design problems and solutions in addition to theories of design. The course is supplemented by a discussion of a specific form of design science research called Action Design Research (ADR).
Course content and design
The course is designed to include extensive discussions of literature on design science research as well as hands-on exercises about the following themes:
- Theories of design
- The design science research process, methods, and techniques
- The design of IS artifacts and products of design science research
- ADR
The course will be structured around main themes in the literature. These include the following:
- The characteristics of design science research in IS
- Theories of design and design as a science
- The design science research process
- Design science research methods and techniques
- The IS artifact and design science research products and outcomes
- Design science problems and solutions
- Action design research (ADR)
The course has a two-day activity on each theme every month.
Assessment
Assessment will be done along several dimensions corresponding to the deliverables and learning outcomes of the course. This includes the following:
- Active participation in the discussions and presentations of the four course themes including the ADR exercises. (1 credit)
- Writing individual summaries of the reading literature in each theme – see separate instructions by the course leaders. (2 credits)
- Writing a group report outlining the outcome from ADR exercises – see separate instructions by the guest lecturer. (1.5 credits)
- Writing an individual publishable article on one of themes of the course – see separate instructions by the course leaders. (3 credits)
Application
Design Science Research in Information Systems is not currently open for application.
Design Science Research in Information Systems
Study period
Spring
Study pace
25%
Location
Campus or hybrid upon discussion with the course director
Language of instruction
English
Course director
Osama Mansour
Student stories
Doctoral student Darmin Poturovic, from University West, took the course Design Science Research in Information Systems at the Department of Informatics during Spring 2024. We asked him to share some thoughts about the course.
Why did you choose the course Design Science Research in Information Systems at the Department of Informatics, Lund University?
“I chose the Design Science Research (DSR) course at Lund University's Department of Informatics because my doctoral thesis specifically employs Action Design Research (ADR), a subset of DSR. This course offered a unique opportunity to deepen my understanding and enhance my proficiency in this specialized field, aligning perfectly with my academic and research objectives.”
What are the most interesting aspects of the course?
“The chance to learn directly from some of the top minds in Design Science Research has been incredibly enriching. The seminars are nothing short of inspiring, pushing me to think in new ways and improve continuously.”
How has the course helped and challenged you in your PhD journey?
“The course has offered me great opportunities to debate and discuss with other doctoral students, each of us bringing our unique projects and perspectives to the table. Tackling new questions and exchanging feedback have really broadened my understanding of DSR and challenged me to think more critically about my own work.”
What advice would you give to someone interested in applying for a doctoral course at the Department of Informatics, Lund University?
“Dive into every reading suggested and make the most of every seminar. The real magic happens when you actively engage with the experts and your peers. Try to attend the classes physically in LUND as often as possible and seek opportunities to meet and collaborate with noted researchers such as Amir Haj-Bolouri, Osama Mansour, Matti Rossi, and so on. Their insights are invaluable for anyone serious about a career in informatics.”