Description
This course is an introduction to the theory and practice of empirical research methods in political science. Students will become familiar with the core concepts and basic principles of political science research. They will not only learn why research methods are important but also how to use them. Among the topics covered in the course are theory, empirical reasoning, the development of testable and verifiable research questions, and the operationalisation of key concepts and terms. In addition to the lectures, students will attend corresponding workgroups and use SPSS to conduct empirical research. Besides working with SPSS, the workshops will focus on the presentation and interpretation of empirical results. A complete syllabus with the lecture and workgroup topics and examination dates will be available at the beginning of the semester.
Method of Instruction:
The course consists of lectures and workgroups. Students are expected to attend both lectures and workgroups. Students must sign up in time for the course and for workgroups (numbers are limited).
Study material
Number of pages: 300-350. – Earl Babbie (2007) The Practice of Social Research, 11th edition, Thomson.
- Andy Field (2005) Discovering Statistics Using SPSS, 2nd edition, Sage.
Examination
A final exam at the end of the course will cover material from both the literature and the lectures. The final score will be based on the final exam (60%) and the average score of several SPSS assignments (40%) in the workgroups.
Course requirements/recommendations
Statistiek I: Beschrijven en Presenteren
Statistiek II: Analyse en Onderzoek
Time table
Hoorcollege
dinsdag 2 september t/m 14 oktober, 11.00 – 13.00 uur, 1A20
donderdag 4 september t/m 16 oktober, 11.00 – 13.00 uur, 1A20
Werkgroepen
werkgroep 1: dinsdag 2 september t/m 14 oktober, 13.00 -15.00 uur, 1A46 (pc)/SA23
werkgroep 2: dinsdag 2 september t/m 14 oktober, 15.00 – 17.00 uur, 1A32 (pc)/Ch09
werkgroep 3: donderdag 4 september t/m 16 oktober, 13.00 – 15.00 uur, 1A46 (pc)/6C03
werkgroep 4: donderdag 4 september t/m 16 oktober, 15.00 – 17.00 uur, 1A46 (pc)/5A37
Tentamens
SPSS-toets: Woensdag 22 oktober van 13.00 -15.00 uur of van 15.00 – 17.00 uur, 1A32, 1A28 en 1A46 (pc-zalen)
Hertentamens
SPSS-toets: Woensdag 14 januari van 13.00 -15.00 uur of van 15.00 – 17.00 uur, 1A28 en 1A46 (pc-zalen)