Social Sciences Methodology

No basic knowledge is required.

The pedagogical model involves the initiation into scientific research.

It presupposes preparation for active life through updated and rigorous scientific contact with the academy and with the teacher responsible for the curricular unit. This reality is transposed into the classrooms through the exposure of theoretical content and the execution of exercises.

Critical knowledge, autonomous and group study/lectures are encouraged. Main issues regarding Social Sciences Methodologies are investigated.

Scientific research is fortified, fostering the creative and innovative spirit of the student.

The course unit is based on three central themes of social sciences. It is intended for students to reflect on: – the theme of the nature-culture; – the theme of the individual-society; – the theme of ‘us’ – ‘the others’.

In the previous moment, students acquire knowledge regarding the conceptualization of the Methodology of Social Sciences, typifying the various sciences, highlighting and distinguishing the existing methodological problems.

The constraints felt in this field are considered, and the research process in Social Sciences is trained.

The importance of research on Sociology and the significance of surveys in its construction are also emphasized.

It concludes with the presentation and acquisition of knowledge about the usual methodological models in social research, namely: experimental designs, non-experimental or descriptive designs, qualitative designs, and mixed designs.

The aim is that the student understands the entire procedure of a empirical scientific research.

Skills:

a) stimulates the ability for scientific research;

b) stimulates the ability for independent and group study;

c) stimulates the ability for analysis and reflection; and,

d) stimulates the ability for argumentation.

Part I – A global view on the Social Sciences

The Methodology of the Social Sciences: conceptualization, formation and development.

The theoretical foundations of research in Social Sciences.

The break with common sense in the Social Sciences: problem, nature and culture, individuals and society, us and others.

Paradigm, methodologies and research methods: positivist, qualitative or interpretative, socio-critical.

The importance of epistemology for critical thinking.

Part II – From theory to empirical research

General methodological problems and specific problems of observation and measurement in Social Sciences

Quantitative research

Qualitative research

Part III – The research process in Social Sciences

Problem and hypothesis

Literature review

Definition of variables

Sample

The use of descriptive and inferential statistics

Content analysis

Validity and reliability

The research report

Part IV – Research in Sociology

Part V – Research Plans – exemplification

NAO