Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2021 - IS 300 E100

Research Methods in International Studies (4)

Class Number: 5560

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 8 – Dec 7, 2021: Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Vancouver

  • Prerequisites:

    IS 101 and 45 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduces the research enterprise in International Studies.

COURSE DETAILS:

In a world in which knowledge production is ever more democratized and abundant it has become increasingly important for the consumer of these knowledge claims to possess the tools necessary to adjudicate amongst claims that have valid methodological support and those that do not. This is an upper-level seminar which introduces students to the concepts, ideas, and techniques underpinning social science research generally, and research in international studies specifically. 

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

This course will provide students with the tools necessary to critically analyze and assess research and adequately assess answers to questions like those above. In addition, students will learn how to produce good research. You will also gain an understanding of the major theoretical frameworks used to produce social research. Students will become familiar with ideas related to the philosophy of science, quantitative and qualitative understanding, and also critical approaches to the analysis of social phenomena. Each session will end with an in-depth examination and discussion of an important research finding in international studies.

Grading

  • Participation/Attendance 20%
  • Questions, Interesting points, and Problems (QIPs) (x 2) 10%
  • Short Papers (x 2) 10%
  • Midterm Exam 20%
  • Research Analysis Paper 10%
  • Final Exam 30%

NOTES:

Students will be required to submit their written assignments to Turnitin.com in order to receive credit for the assignments and for the course.

The School for International Studies strictly enforces the University's policies regarding plagiarism and other forms of academic dishonesty. Information about these policies can be found at: http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/teaching.html.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Bryman, Alan, and Edward Bell. 2019. Social Research Methods (Oxford University Press; 5th Canadian edition).
ISBN: 9780199029518

Additional readings will be made available electronically.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site 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

TEACHING AT SFU IN FALL 2021

Teaching at SFU in fall 2021 will involve primarily in-person instruction, with approximately 70 to 80 per cent of classes in person/on campus, with safety plans in place.  Whether your course will be in-person or through remote methods will be clearly identified in the schedule of classes.  You will also know at enrollment whether remote course components will be “live” (synchronous) or at your own pace (asynchronous).

Enrolling in a course acknowledges that you are able to attend in whatever format is required.  You should not enroll in a course that is in-person if you are not able to return to campus, and should be aware that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as early as possible in order to prepare for the fall 2021 term.