Department of Political Science and Public Administration

The aim of this course is to deepen the understanding of topics covered in the course Methods and Techniques of Social Research 1, as well as to expand into new, more specialized topics related to both data collection and production, and data analysis, with an emphasis on quantitative analysis. New research tools are introduced, with a focus on the internal logic of research, identifying and avoiding errors, both logical and otherwise. Additionally, there is extensive coverage of how to read and analyze published research findings, facilitated by familiarity with relevant materials. Moreover, certain historical research projects, both domestic and international, are presented with focus on their key methodological dimensions.

Course Objectives:

• To further acquaint students with research methodology, especially the more demanding aspects of it.
• To introduce students to fundamental methods of quantitative analysis of research data.
• To familiarize students with the reading and interpretation of research findings.

Course Content:

1. Variables
2. Relationships between variables: Correlation, causation, and errors
3. Research population and sampling
4. Available research designs (case study, comparative study, surveys, types of qualitative research)
5. Experimentation in social research
6. Observation techniques
7. Secondary data analysis
8. Content analysis
9. Qualitative content analysis and thematic analysis
10. Composite measures, indexes, and scales
11. Quantitative analysis: measures of central tendency, measures of dispersion, covariance and correlation, bivariate and multivariate analysis
12. Presentation and analysis of research projects and research findings

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, students:

• Will have become familiar with demanding methods of collecting, producing, and analyzing research data.
• Will be able to critically understand, comment on, interpret, and use published research in their own work.

Course texts

1. Adler, E. and Clark, R. (2017) Social Research. [Edited by Y. Tsirbas], Athens, Tziolas Publications.
2. Stalikas, A. and Kyriazos, Th. (2019) Methodology of research and Statistics. Athens, Topos publications.