POL2017 : Becoming a Political Researcher
- Offered for Year: 2023/24
- Module Leader(s): Dr Skyler Hawkins
- Owning School: Geography, Politics & Sociology
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
| Semester 2 Credit Value: | 20 |
| ECTS Credits: | 10.0 |
Aims
Politics research can take many forms and use a wide variety of data. This course introduces students to key concepts used in both quantitative and qualitative research, as well as range of research methods and methodologies. It covers both the theoretical underpinnings of different approaches, and the practical steps to collect and analyse various sorts of data. Lectures introduce key topics, ideas and debates. Seminars provide students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience developing a research design, collecting, and analysing data. The course will equip students with knowledge and skills which are applicable to both their undergraduate dissertation in Politics and subsequent careers.
Outline Of Syllabus
In any given year, topics covered may include:
• Theoretical approaches
• Research questions and hypotheses
• Surveys
• Interviews and focus groups
• Ethnography
• Ethics and research methods
• Case studies and comparative method
• Content analysis
• Discourse analysis
• Reporting findings and writing up
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 11 | 2:00 | 22:00 | Lectures in preparation for readings and seminars (PIP) |
| Structured Guided Learning | Structured research and reading activities | 11 | 3:00 | 33:00 | Annotated guided reading |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Small group teaching | 11 | 1:00 | 11:00 | PIP Seminars |
| Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 1 | 134:00 | 134:00 | Assessment preparation and completion |
| Total | 200:00 |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
The lectures introduce students to the key terms, concepts, and methods associated with researching politics. They also help contextualize data collection and analysis methods within e.g. positivism and poststructuralism. Seminars provide a live, synchronous environment in which students can discuss essential readings and specific methods. The in-person module talk gives students the opportunity to ask questions of the ML regarding the on demand lecture. The time may also be used to expand on recorded lectures and clarify key themes. Structured, guided learning activities such as annotated readings encourage students to engage consistently with the essential readings and specific methods taught.
Assessment Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Other Assessment
| Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essay | 2 | M | 15 | 500 words |
| Essay | 2 | M | 85 | 3000 words |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The essay plan will provide the opportunity to prepare for the essay. The essay will allow students to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the key concepts and debates covered throughout the course, as well as engaging in particular depth with specific ideas and methods relevant to each question.
Reading Lists
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- POL2017's Timetable