Social Research Methods (KSK_063)
About Study Course
Objective
To acquaint students with the logic of social research process, design of quantitative and qualitative methodologies and methods of data collection. To enable students to read and understand scientific literature in the field of social studies. To provide the necessary basic knowledge and skills for students to independently develop their own research projects and course papers: choose appropriate research methods, perform data processing and analysis.
Prerequisites
Basic computer skills.
Learning outcomes
Students will gain knowledge of the importance of research in the social sciences; on the various strategies for conducting social research, their benefits and limitations. Gain an understanding of the criteria for qualitative conducted research.
Students will acquire the skills to choose the research method appropriate to the needs of the research, to define the target group and to draw the sample according to the research task. During the course students will learn how to create a questionnaire, formulate and compose questions of different structure. They will learn how to process quantitative research data independently, to analyze statistical indicators and to draw correct conclusions. Students will acquire the skills to work with the statistical program SPSS and will appreciate the accuracy and reliability of quantitative research results available in the public domain.
During the course students will get an insight into different research methodologies and their application in sociological research. They will learn to critically evaluate the reliability of information available in the public space on data collected in various surveys.
Study course planning
| Study programme | Study semester | Program level | Study course category | Lecturers | Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Photography, FO | 4 | Bachelor’s | Limited choice | Vineta Silkāne | |
| Multimedia Communication, MKN | 4 | Bachelor’s | Required | Vineta Silkāne | |
| Multimedia Communication, MK | 4 | Bachelor’s | Required | Vineta Silkāne | |
| Public Relations, SA | 4 | Bachelor’s | Required | Vineta Silkāne | |
| Journalism, ZR | 4 | Bachelor’s | Required | Vineta Silkāne |
