This course establishes a foundational understanding of the fundamental concepts and methodologies integral to the study of research methodology. It helps to acquaint students with the basics of research methods, techniques, and approaches and to assist in the accomplishment of exploratory as well as result-oriented research studies.
The students will be able to identify the research problem and start asking the right questions with the aim of improving their ability to make logical arguments. In addition to familiarizing the students with various research techniques (qualitative and quantitative), the course will also train the students in the process of writing various academic and popular writings.
Course Content
Unit I: Understanding Research
a) Philosophy of Social Science Research
b) Characteristics of Scientific Research
c) Types of Research: Quantitative and Qualitative, Content Analysis
Unit II: Research Design
a) Identification of Research Problem
b) Review of Literature
c) Formulation of Hypothesis
d) Variables, Types of Variables
Unit III: Sampling and Data Collection
a) Probability Sampling
- Simple Random Sampling
- Stratified Random Sampling
- Cluster Sampling
b) Non-Probability Sampling
- Quota Sampling
- Accidental Sampling
- Judgmental Sampling or Purposive Sampling
- Expert Sampling
- Snowball Sampling
c) Data Collection Methods
- Observation
- Questionnaire
- Interview
- Focus Group Discussion
Unit IV: Data Analysis and Report Writing
a) Quantitative and Qualitative Data Analysis
b) Tabulation and Co-relation
c) Report Writing, Citation Style
Essential Readings
- Ahuja, R. (2001). Research Method. Rawat Publication.
- Dhiman, A. K., & Dhiman, S. C. (2002). Research Methodology. Ess Ess Publication.
- Goode, W. J., & Hatt, P. K. (1952). Methods in Social Research. McGraw-Hill.
- Kothari, C. R., & Garg, G. (2019). Research Methodology: Methods and Techniques (4th ed.). New Age International Publisher.
- Kumar, R. (2023). Research Methodology: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners (4th ed.). Sage Publications.
Source: Undergraduate (UG) Political Science Syllabus – Core XVII (Semester VII): Research Methodology.