Department of Political Science and Public Administration

This course provides an overview of methods and techniques used in social research, covering both qualitative and quantitative approaches. There is an extensive discussion of fundamental concepts in social research, with detailed presentations on the stages of the research process. Emphasis is placed on research design and methods of data collection and production. Each method and step of the research process is presented both within the corresponding theoretical framework and in its applied dimension. The course also incorporates experiential learning techniques to complement the content.

Course Objectives:

• To develop an understanding of the overall research process and the interconnections between its various stages.
• To strengthen students' appreciation of the value of empirical social research in addressing scientific questions in the social sciences.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of the tools and strategies available for conducting empirical social research.

Course Content:

1. The process and stages of research
2. The research question
3. The relationship between theory and research
4. Conceptualization and operationalization
5. Research hypotheses
6. Research strategies: qualitative and quantitative research
7. Measurement in social research
8. Reliability and validity in measurement
9. Interviews, questions, and questionnaires
10. Citation of sources and bibliographic references
11. Ethics and deontology in social research

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, students will:

• Have a comprehensive understanding of what social research entails and how it is organized.
• Be familiar with the fundamental concepts and stages of social research, both theoretically and empirically.

Course texts

1. Bryman, A. (2018) Methods of Social Research. Athens, Gutenberg.
2. Robson, C. (2010) Real World Research. Athens, Gutenberg.
3. Kalfopoulos, K. (ed.) (2003) The Qualitative Tradition in Social Sciences. Athens, Nisos publications.
4. Tsiolis, G. (2014) Method and Techniques of Analysis in Qualitative Research. Athens, Kritiki Publications.

More information and support material at the course's e-class pages.