Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2024 - IS 300 D100

Research Methods in International Studies (4)

Class Number: 5258

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 4 – Dec 3, 2024: Thu, 11:30 a.m.–2:20 p.m.
    Vancouver

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 5, 2024
    Thu, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
    Vancouver

  • Prerequisites:

    IS 101 and 45 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduces the research enterprise in International Studies.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course introduces key methodological debates and research methods in social sciences and examines their application in International Studies. It begins with an exploration of the politics, history and main characteristics of social scientific inquiry. In the first half of the course, we will examine concepts such as ontology and epistemology, correlation and causality, the unit of analysis, and competing approaches that influence how research questions are posed, and research projects are conducted in the social sciences. The second half of the course will focus on various qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods of data collection. Throughout the term, you will participate in several hands-on class activities designed to help you better understand the practicalities of social research and improve your research skills. You will also draft a research proposal related to your own scholarly interests, share your project with peers and receive feedback in an end-of-term workshop.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

  • identify common ethical issues involved in social research and develop strategies to address them
  • explain and evaluate the strengths and limitations of qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods of data collection commonly used in the social sciences
  • recognize and critically assess key methodological approaches, assumptions and debates in the social sciences
  • demonstrate basic research skills
  • formulate an interesting research question and develop a research proposal
  • improve their collaborative and interpersonal skills through participating in a group-based survey project

Grading

  • Participation 10%
  • Discussion Questions 15%
  • Survey Design and Pilot Study (Group Work) 20%
  • Ethnographic Field Notes and Self-Reflection 15%
  • Research Proposal 20%
  • Final Exam 20%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

All readings will be made available electronically through Canvas. Students are required to come to class having done all the assigned readings beforehand.


REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.