"If you could learn only one thing in graduate school, it should be how to do scholarly research" (Gary King, Harvard University). By teaching the elements of  research, and exploring the philosophical basis of social science research, this course helps students assess existing studies, identify their own research questions, develop arguments, and formulate strategies to conduct research. The course also contains workshops on practical aspects of research practice.   This course is suitable for graduate students in political science, public policy,  and international relations.

This course can only introduce principles of research design in the social sciences. Students are strongly encouraged to read additional materials and/or to take other courses. 

Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

• 1. formulate their own research question and to choose a proper research design that could examine the question;

• 2. assess conditions under which one can properly apply tools of measurement and systematic ways to make inferences and interpret data

• 3. undertake critical evaluations of methodological issues and problems in existing empirical research;

• 4. consider a variety of approaches to research in social sciences;

• 5. understand the importance of ethics in research and the ethical review process at ANU;

• 6. develop, refine and present a research proposal for their own original research.

50% Short notes, including a literature review (Learning outcomes 1 - 5).

50% Research proposal (Learning outcomes 1 - 6)

- Weekly lectures (2.5 hours x 13 weeks)

 - Academic and research skills workshops (1.5 hours x 5 sessions)

 - Discussion and presentation sessions (1.5 hours x 6 sessions)

 - 3-5 hours per week for reading and preparation outside of contact hours to complete the course

Students who have already taken a similar research method course elsewhere.

Shively, W. Phillips. 2009. The Craft of Political Research. Seventh Edition. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall.

Delivery mode:

On Campus.  Weekly lectures. All lecture notes (PowerPoint slides) and audio recordings will be uploaded to WebCT after each lecture.

In addition, students are required to attend academic and research skills workshops, group discussion sessions, and end-of-semester presentation sessions.