The aims of this course are:

• to introduce students to the practice and challenges of research design international relations
• to familiarize students with methods of investigation, data gathering and analysis
• to demonstrate research methods through a critical investigation of case studies and relevant literature
• to encourage students to develop critical analytical and evaluative skills

Students who engage fully and successfully with this course will be able to:

1. demonstrate a sound knowledge and a critical understanding of research design and methods

2. apply that knowledge to the development of a research proposal and plan

3. communicate their critical understanding of research design and methods in a clear and concise way through a series of assignments and participation in seminars

1. Participation - 10%

2. Reflective paper on an approach to studying international relations (40%)

3. Research project design paper (50%)

Two hour seminars per week, plus 8-10 hours of independent study

This course will be a compulsory course for students in the MAIR degree. However, it will be open to all students enrolled in the MIA and MAIR degrees.

Students will be expected to be familiar with International Relations as a field of study

Prescribed readings will be provide via Wattle

Wattle access required