Research methods are – together with theoretical frameworks and empirical material – one of the three main pillars of the study of politics and international relations. This module unlocks the power of data analysis for students from a variety of educational backgrounds - no statistical knowledge is necessary. In our data-driven world, understanding numbers is crucial for political science and international relations. Doing Politics with Numbers teaches you how to sift through the noise, find the insights hidden within statistics, and uncover the real story behind the numbers often used in political science and international relations. It will introduce you to the principles of empirical social science research and equip you with foundational statistical techniques. You will gain the ability to confidently analyse the data driving policy decisions and academic research. Additionally, you will develop the skills to dissect complex arguments and see the bigger picture hidden within the numbers.
Lecture 16, PC lab 16
Practical Competency. Assessment Details: 1,000 Words Data Task worth 50%.
Report. Assessment Details: 2,000 words Data Analysis and Interpretation of Regression Analysis worth 50%.
Reassessment Method: Like for like
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
1) Recognise the logic of the empirical research process.
2) Apply key methodological and statistical concepts relevant to quantitative data analysis.
3) Validate arguments supported by quantitative work.
4) Select, evaluate and deploy methodological approaches appropriate to exploring substantive research questions in the social sciences.
5) Assess and describe how the strengths and limitations of quantitative methods shape the interpretation and communication of social science research findings.
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