Introduction to sociological research I

Students will learn the basic research paradigms (positivism, interpretative paradigm, critical research, postmodernism, feminism) and key quantitative data collection methods (survey, official statistics, non-reactive research) and the basics of statistical data analysis. They will learn to distinguish among different research approaches, their aims, advantages and disadvantages and be able to use the most appropriate approach for a particular research problem. They will acquire understanding of the relation between theory and empirical research. They will learn the basic elements and principles of quantitative research designs, sampling and steps in planning and implementing a quantitative study. They will acquire knowledge of basic principles and dilemmas of ethics in social science research.