Introduction to Research Methods

This course provides an introduction to the background issues of research methods by providing an overview of research processes, the importance of understanding literature on a research subject, and a focus on ethical considerations that are required.

5 ECTS Credits — Studies start 13 January 2020 — University of Helsinki

Photo by fotografierende from Pexels
Photo by fotografierende from Pexels

Course dates

13 January 2020 – 15 March 2020

Registration period

1 November 2019 – 31 December 2019

Coordinating university

University of Helsinki

Instructors

David Lawson

Credits

5 ECTS

Course dates: 13.1.-15.3.2020
Registration dates: 1.11.-31.12.2019
Coordinating university: University of Helsinki
Responsible teacher: David Lawson, /
Credits: 5 ECTS

Course content

This course provides an introduction to the background issues of research methods by providing an overview of research processes, the importance of understanding literature on a research subject, and a focus on ethical considerations that are required. The course provides an outline of quantitative, qualitative and mixed research methods thus enabling students to understand how to use such methods in understanding the global policies.

Students will be able to generate quantitative data - whether this be to use as background statistics for their own research questions or to form part of more in-depth quantitative research. We will also review qualitative and mixed methods research. This course will provide students with quantitative and qualitative research skills required for undertaking data analysis for global issues.

Objectives

On completion of the course students will be:

  • familiar with research methods and ethical issues
  • familiar with some international databases
  • able to demonstrate competence in assessing quantitative data in a critical way
  • able to appropriately use quantitative and qualitative research methods for analysing issues related to global studies
  • able to critique quantitative and qualitative methods and data, understand their importance for development studies
  • able to communicate effectively in written formats.

Learning methods

Lectures, forum discussion, reading, videos, assignments.

Study materials

Readings, videos, and other materials provided via Moodle and at the start of each lecture. All materials will be in English.

Assessment

Grade 0-5. The final mark will consist of two short essays (1500 words each).

Additional information

Maximum number of students is 30.

No prior knowledge of research skills are required, however a keen interest in learning and implementing research skills is required.

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