Hauptseminar

The process of building on the extant knowledge by developing and testing theories has been a critical part of academic research. This course provides an introduction to theory building in Innovation Strategy research. By discussing the fundamental issues, the course provides guidelines for framing a research problem, theory development, theory testing and writing an academic research piece.

Goals

The purpose of this course is to prepare students to master the process of applied theory development based on current Innovation Strategy literature. Since conducting robust academic research involves various interdependent stages, the course will also discuss the implications and requirements of theory building on every stage of an academic project. The full cycle of a research project - from design, connecting to the literature, theorizing, and analysis to reporting - will be covered. Also, by discussing recent developments in innovation and strategic management literature, the course provides potential research ideas and opportunities for interested students to write a bachelor's thesis on related topics. By the end of the course, the students will gain the required skills, knowledge, and strategies in developing applied theory and executing a research project.

General Organization

• The course will be held as a block seminar in English.
• The term paper is a prerequisite for writing a Bachelor's thesis at the ISTO.
• This seminar qualifies for a Bachelor's thesis according to the examination regulations (PO 2015).
• The number of participants is limited to 20.
• Attendance to all sessions of the course is mandatory.
• The application process is centrally organized.
• Mandatory attendance: Kick-Off, Final Presentation and two further appointments