Political Science, Mixed Methods, 7.5 credits

Aim

The aim of this course is to describe, analyze and critically examine the use of mixed methods within the social sciences and humanities. A further aim of this course is to provide an arena in which the students may discuss, practice on, and assess the feasibility of, the application of mixed methods in their own research.

Course objectives

After completing the course, the students are expected to be able to:
- describe, analyze and critically examine the use of mixed methods within the social sciences and humanities.
- Critically reflect on the application of techniques of mixed methods in relation to their own research.
- discuss Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) and its utility as part of a mixed methods design, as well as carry out a simple QCA-analysis
- discuss formal social network analysis (SNA) and its utility as part of a mixed methods design, as well as carry out a simple network analysis.
- critically reflect and analyze mixed method designs in an experimental setting, as well as carry out a simple mixed methods design with experiments.

Content

The course consists of a discussion on how the application of mixed methods can strengthen research in general. We will explore the theoretical underpinnings of mixed methods research designs and analyze the rationales behind them. We will also address different strategies for combining and integrating different methods at a more applied level. The applied section of the discussion will include studying ways of combining statistical analyses with case studies in order to both address additional research questions and to refine each analytical technique. Furthermore, the course will in particular highlight three examples of strategies for mixed methods, QCA and SNA and mixed methods design with experiments. We will discuss the merits of each method as a part of a mixed method design, and practice using each method in a workshop setting.

Entry requirements

A person meets the entry requirements for the course if he or she has been admitted to a third-cycle study programme and will be given credit for the course in that study programme.
(Äldre gymnasiebetyg)

Selection rules and procedures

The selection process is in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance and the local order of admission.

Teaching form

Teaching will be a combination of lectures, seminars and workshops. Active participation in each of these is obligatory, and non-attendance entails make-up assignments.

Examination form

Active student participation is required at lectures, seminars and workshops. Students are graded on written assignments

Grading system

Fail (U) or Pass (G)

Other information

During workshops, students need to bring their own laptop computer. The use of specific software will be required.