Methods and techniques of research in political science Field of study: Political Science
Programme code: W3-S1PO19.2023

Module name: Methods and techniques of research in political science
Module code: W3-PO-S1-MTBP
Programme code: W3-S1PO19.2023
Semester:
  • winter semester 2024/2025
  • winter semester 2023/2024
Language of instruction: depending on the choice
Form of verification: course work
ECTS credits: 2
Purpose and description of the content of education:
The module aims to discuss research methods and techniques in political science. Different modes of political science research will be analyzed, including qualitative methods, quantitative methods and rational choice theory. The aim is also to provide students with new analytical tools to apply in other courses and increase their ability to ask and answer research questions independently. Readings and lectures will cover a wide range of research methods. The assigned literature will contain methodological texts and many substantive examples from various fields of political science, which illustrate various scientific approaches.
List of modules that must be completed before starting this module (if necessary): not applicable
Learning outcome of the module Codes of the learning outcomes of the programme to which the learning outcome of the module is related [level of competence: scale 1-5]
The student is ready to take action to solve specific social problems using methods and techniques used in political science. [K01]
 PO_1_K01 [3/5]
The student can substantively diagnose complex political processes by properly selecting research methods. [U01]
 PO_1_U01 [3/5]
The student can assess the validity of competing knowledge claims to an advanced degree and develop persuasive arguments and defend them with solid evidence. [U02]
 PO_1_U01 [4/5]
The student knows and understands to an advanced degree various methods of political science research that will help him understand how to create a practical research project. [W01]
 PO_1_W01 [4/5]
Form of teaching Number of hours Methods of conducting classes Assessment of the learning outcomes Learning outcomes
discussion classes [MP_1] 15 Description [a03] 
Explanation/clarification [a05] 
Activating method – discussion / debate [b04] 
Activating methods: a case study [b07] 
Working with a programmed textbook [d02] 
Project scheduling [e04] 
Conceptual work [f03]  		course work K01 U01 U02 W01
The student's work, apart from participation in classes, includes in particular:
Name Category Description
Search for materials and review activities necessary for class participation [a01] Preparation for classes
reviewing literature, documentation, tools and materials as well as the specifics of the syllabus and the range of activities indicated in it as required for full participation in classes
Literature reading / analysis of source materials [a02] Preparation for classes
reading the literature indicated in the syllabus; reviewing, organizing, analyzing and selecting source materials to be used in class
Consulting materials complementary to those indicated in the syllabus [a04] Preparation for classes
agreeing on materials complementary to those indicated in the syllabus, supporting the implementation of tasks resulting from or necessary for class participation
Production/preparation of tools, materials or documentation necessary for class participation [a05] Preparation for classes
developing, preparing and assessing the usefulness of tools and materials (e.g. aids, scenarios, research tools, equipment, etc.) to be employed in class or as an aid when preparing for classes
Getting acquainted with the syllabus content [b01] Consulting the curriculum and the organization of classes
reading through the syllabus and getting acquainted with its content
Consulting the schedule [b03] Consulting the curriculum and the organization of classes
getting acquainted with the class schedule, possibly in the presence of the year tutor, in order to optimize participation in classes, including those supplementary to the core subjects listed in the pursued study programme
Studying the literature used in and the materials produced in class [c02] Preparation for verification of learning outcomes
exploring the studied content, inquiring, considering, assimilating, interpreting it, or organizing knowledge obtained from the literature, documentation, instructions, scenarios, etc., used in class as well as from the notes or other materials/artifacts made in class
Analysis of the corrective feedback provided by the academic teacher on the results of the verification of learning outcomes [d01] Consulting the results of the verification of learning outcomes
reading through the academic teacher’s comments, assessments and opinions on the implementation of the task aimed at checking the level of the achieved learning outcomes
Development of a corrective action plan as well as supplementary/corrective tasks [d02] Consulting the results of the verification of learning outcomes
reviewing and selecting tasks and activities enabling the elimination of errors indicated by the academic teacher, their verification or correction resulting in completing the task with at least the minimum passing grade
Attachments
Module description (PDF)
Information concerning module syllabuses might be changed during studies.
Syllabuses (USOSweb)
Semester Module Language of instruction
(no information given)