Research Design
A.Y. 2025/2026
Learning objectives
To understand the basic tools of academic production- reading, writing, craftsmanship, theory, and the scholarly conversation. To obtain a basic overview of both qualitative and quantitative techniques in the social sciences.
Expected learning outcomes
To produce a research proposal that meets the standards of Masters-level scientific work, that includes a range of methods and a starting point research question.
Lesson period: First trimester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
First trimester
Course syllabus
The course provides students with essential tools for designing and conducting research, both in academic and non-academic settings. It offers an overview of key qualitative and quantitative techniques used in the social sciences and serves as a platform for beginning to reflect on the master's thesis project.
Topics covered include: an introduction to research strategies with a focus on epistemological and ontological considerations; an overview of research designs; planning and structuring a research project; literature review; research ethics; an introduction to quantitative research covering sampling, structured interviews, self-administered questionnaires, question design, structured observation, secondary analysis, and the use of official statistics; an introduction to qualitative research including sampling, ethnography and participant observation, qualitative interviews, and focus groups; and finally, an introduction to mixed methods research.
Topics covered include: an introduction to research strategies with a focus on epistemological and ontological considerations; an overview of research designs; planning and structuring a research project; literature review; research ethics; an introduction to quantitative research covering sampling, structured interviews, self-administered questionnaires, question design, structured observation, secondary analysis, and the use of official statistics; an introduction to qualitative research including sampling, ethnography and participant observation, qualitative interviews, and focus groups; and finally, an introduction to mixed methods research.
Prerequisites for admission
No prior knowledge is required to take this course.
Teaching methods
Lectures, group exercises in the classroom.
Teaching Resources
Social Research Methods, Tom Clark, Liam Foster, Luke Sloan, and Alan Bryman, 2021, Oxford University Press, Sixth Edition
Assessment methods and Criteria
The exam is the same for all students, whether attending or not, and includes a written test with multiple-choice questions and a group-based research proposal based on course materials. Attending students may be exempted from the final written test if they take two intermediate tests during the course and present their research proposal in class. Non-attending students must submit the research proposal and take the final written test.
SPS/07 - GENERAL SOCIOLOGY - University credits: 9
Lessons: 60 hours
Professor:
Dotti Sani Giulia Maria
Professor(s)