Unit information: Political Research Methods in 2013/14

Unit name	Political Research Methods
Unit code	POLIM3021
Credit points	20
Level of study	M/7
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24)
Unit director	Dr. Michel
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	School of Sociology, Politics and International Studies
Faculty	Faculty of Social Sciences and Law

Description including Unit Aims

This unit examines the differing methodological approaches that are frequently utilised in the process of empirical political and international relations research. The focus is upon the relative strengths and weaknesses of quantitative and qualitative methodological techniques of data collection, particularly in the form of surveys, interviews, observation and content analysis. The impact of practical and ethical considerations involved in undertaking research are given prominence throughout, as is the impact of developments in information technology. We will concentrate upon a range of research approaches relevant to the study of politics and international relations, which will enable the student to produce a robust research proposal, relevant to their own research interests. This unit is only available to students registered for MSc/Diploma degrees in the Department of Politics. Please note that the Department does not permit the auditing of any of its units.

Aims:

• To gain an understanding of the particular methodological tools frequently employed by those engaged in political and international relations research

• To critically evaluate the methods of data collection and evaluation as evidenced in published politics and international relations research

• To identify the practical challenges which influence the political and international relations research process

• To apply these research tools to substantive areas of interest in politics and international relations

Intended Learning Outcomes

• To develop an understanding of the particular methodological tools relevant to political and international relations research

• To develop the ability to critically evaluate the various methods of data collection

• To develop an understanding of the practical challenges which influence the political and international relations research process

• To clearly explain the relevance and appropriateness of particular research tools to a specific research proposal

Teaching Information

The following methods will be used:

• Critical evaluation of relevant literature

• Discussion and group work

• Listening and speaking in discussion

• Literature searches and primary source work, including internet

• Seminar presentations (individual or collaborative)

• Essay writing

Assessment Information

Formative assessment: an oral presentation supported by a handout Summative assessment: a 3,500 to 4,000 word essay

A full statement of the relationship between the programme outcomes and types/methods of assessment is contained in accompanying Programme Specifications and section B7 of the Major Change to Current Programme forms for the programmes of which this unit is a part. The assessment for each unit is designed to fit within and contribute to that approach in terms of intellectual development across each of the two teaching blocks, and in relation to knowledge and understanding, intellectual skills and attributes, and transferable skills.

Reading and References

• L. Harrison (2001) Political Research; An Introduction, London: Routledge.

• D. Marsh & G. Stoker (eds) (2001) Theory and Methods in Political Science (2nd ed), Basingstoke: Palgrave. Particularly, Part II (chapters 9-12).

• J. Milliken (1999) ‘The Study of Discourse in International Relations: A Critique of Research and Methods’, European Journal of International Relations, 5 (2): 225-254.

• P. Pennings, H. Keman and J. Kleinnijenhuis (1999) Doing Research in Political Science, London: Sage.

• S. Van Evera (1997) Guide to Methods for Students of Political Science. Ithica: Cornell University Press.