Methods of Social Research

This course aims to impart a critical perspective of, and an empirical familiarity with, the range of methods available to sociological researchers to answer interesting, important, and complex social research questions. It introduces students to the frameworks and methods of conducting sociological research -- from both a qualitative and quantitative perspective. We will examine broadly defined methodological approaches to doing sociology such as survey research, ethnography and interviews, and historical/comparative studies. These methodological approaches correspond to distinct conceptualizations of social life and the science dedicated to studying it. Over the course of the semester, students will focus on developing a fully feasible research proposal.