The goal is to introduce the participants to research methods, approaches and processes in software engineering (SE). In addition, the students practice formulating research questions and planning empirical studies. The course consists of two parts: sessions on which the selected methods for conducting SE research are introduced (systematic literature survey, design science, case study, action research) and study circle in which the concept of validity and SE research from methodological perspective are discussed in small groups based on the part of the course book and additional reading material. Course book: Shadish W. R., Cook T. D. and Campbell D.T.: Experimental and Quasi-Experimental Designs for Generalized Causal Inference. Wadsforth Cengage Learning, 2002. pp. 1­¿102. The learning on course is based on active participation to the course sessions and a Learning Portfolio into which the assigned tasks are completed. The learning portfolio will be evaluated. The course has no exam.