In this course, students learn how to develop a relevant research question that contributes new insight to important topics within the field of Political Science. Students gather data through various “fieldwork” activities. This includes engaging in participant observation, searching for relevant survey data online, conducting interviews, and collecting relevant documents, visual material, and/or archival sources. Students also use techniques that include both qualitative and quantitative coding, process-tracing, document analysis, and discourse analysis. Tools such as data analysis software like R and Quirkos are also incorporated. The process of carefully reflecting on ethics and positionally in this class is considered an important aspect of making student research more rigorous. Achieves technology student learning outcomes a, b, and e.

View POL 2200 in the Academic Catalog

Approved for Data Intensive Course Designation starting Fall 2024.