This module of the Research Methods course aims to provide an introduction on Social Research Methods designed for PhD students with varying academic backgrounds. Therefore, it tries to prioritize accessibility, clarity, and foundational concepts while progressively introducing more advanced topics. The aim is to provide a broad overview of social research methodologies, ensuring that all students, regardless of prior training, gain the necessary tools to understand, design, and conduct basic social research. The course should emphasize both theoretical understanding and practical application, using examples that are relatable across disciplines.
The primary objective of this module is to offer a comprehensive introduction to social research, emphasizing its significance across a range of disciplines. It begins by defining the concept of social research and examining its scope, highlighting the essential role that research plays in enhancing our understanding of social phenomena. Furthermore, the module will explore the interdisciplinary applications of social research methods, demonstrating how these approaches can be effectively utilized in various academic fields and professional contexts.
The module will provide an overview of how to structure social research designs, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods approaches. It will then address various data collection techniques such as focus groups, survey research, and document analysis. Particular attention will be devoted to mixed methods research.