Quantitative Research Methods (part 2)

Academic year: 2009-2010 Course code module 1BPSW-08D2 Semester: 1st semester Credits: 3 Study load (hours) 84 Theory (hours): 30,00 Practice/Exercises(hours): Other (hours): Part-time program: 1 Instructor(s) Herman Meulemans Language of instruction: Dutch Semester exam information: exam in the 1st and/or 2nd semester Contract restriction information: 1. Prerequisites *Algemene competenties The course continuously invites the student to observe the social reality empirically and to understand its regularities. This supposes a constant, active and systematic interest in all aspects of social life. Astonishment and scientific curiosity are at the forefront; they are the most important prerequisites. *Sequentiality None 2. Objectives (expected learning outcomes) The major objective of the course is the integration of methodological knowledge and practical abilities in the broad field of the social sciences in view of doing scientific research. 3. Course content First semester course Content: Social research strategies Research designs Planning a research project and formulating research questions Getting started: reviewing the literature Ethics and politics in social research The nature of quantitative research Sampling Structured interviewing Self-completion questionnaires Asking questions Structured observation Content analysis 4. Teaching method Direct contact: Lectures Skills training Personal work: Supervised self-study 5. Assessment method Exam: Written, without oral presentation Closed book Multiple choice Open questions 6. Compulsory reading – study material Bryman A., Social Research Methods. Oxford University Press, 2008 (+ online resource centre: http://www.oup.com/uk/orc/bin/9780199202959/ ) 7. Recommended reading - study material Nihil. 8. Tutoring After class and by appointment. laatste aanpassing: last update: 17/11/2009 09:00 sonja.vos