This module introduces the research design and methods used in the study of Politics and International Relations. The aim of the module is twofold: (1) to provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to understand, compare and evaluate the design of, and methods used in, research in the field of politics and IR, and (2) to provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to design your own research project and to make informed choices with regards to the methods of research.
The module focuses on the logic behind various types of research design and the key features of different methods used in research in the field of politics and IR. It gives you the necessary tools, methods and approaches in order to succeed in your essays and your dissertation. It covers the key steps you need in order to write successful postgraduate essays and a successful MA dissertation. The lectures and workshops provide you with the tools to do so, and you will, in the parallel seminars, address a series of topics which are necessary to help you write your first term papers.
The topics which are covered include description and explanation, concept analysis and typologies, the role of theories and theoretical frameworks, delineating a topic and formulating a research question, formulating an argument, the comparative method, case studies and case selection, and historical and ethnographic research.
Private Study: 178
Contact Hours: 22
Total: 200
Compulsory to the following courses:
• All MA courses in the School of Politics and International Relations
This module will be followed by POLI9990 Research Methods 2, and then the thesis module POLI9650
For MA Peace and Conflict Studies students, this module will be followed by POLI9660
Main assessment methods
Critical Literature Review, 2500 words (40%)
Research Proposal, 2500 words (60%)
Reassessment methods
100% coursework
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Understand the role of theories and theoretical frameworks and be able to apply them to their own research.
2. Understand and reflect on the difference between description and explanation in research.
3. Understand and be able to design their own research project and to make informed choices with regards to the methods of research.
4. Identify, summarise and critically assess some of the most important approaches and methods employed in the study of politics and international relations.
5. Discuss the theoretical and methodological issues at stake in relation to both their own research and that of others.
6. Understand and be able to formulate and apply to research questions the basic principles of research design in politics and IR.
This module will be followed by POLI9990 Research Methods 2, and then the thesis module POLI9650
For MA Peace and Conflict Studies students, this module will be followed by POLI9660
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.
