PP 485 - Qualitative and Mixed Methods Research

This course introduces students to qualitative research methods, general research design principles, and mixed method approaches to social science. The main goal of the course is to provide students with knowledge on the benefits and limitations of the different research methods as well as to teach students how to best choose methods that fit the research question at hand. The course will also provide students with tools that are necessary to apply qualitative and mixed methods approaches to their own research. The first part of the course introduces research design principles, especially inference and causality. The next part of the course addresses specific qualitative methods, such as case studies, interviews, focus groups, fieldwork, participant observation, and content analysis. The third part of the course discusses how to mix methods appropriately within research to gain maximum leverage on causal analysis. While there are no formal prerequisites, a background in statistical methods such as that attained in PP 481 is helpful.
Units: 4
Course Type: Seminar