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.

ME1: The first classes are expository and practical, also using digital tools (Kahoot, Mentimeter).

ME2: The others imply reflection through the presentation and discussion of scientific papers presented by students. 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.

ME3: The course includes tutorials adapted to the students’ needs.

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, the learning goals are:

LO1: Knowledge regarding the conceptualization of the Methodology of Social Sciences.

LO2: Typifying the various sciences, highlighting and distinguishing the existing methodological problems.

LO3: Reflection about the constraints felt in this field is considered, and the research process in Social Sciences is trained.

LO4: The importance of research on Sociology and the significance of surveys in its construction are also emphasized.

LO5: Acquisition of knowledge about the usual methodological models in social research.

LO6: The aim is that the student understands the entire procedure of a empirical scientific research.

Skills to develop:

SD1: stimulates the ability for scientific research;

SD2: stimulates the ability for independent and group study;

SD3: stimulates the ability for analysis and reflection; and,

SD4: stimulates the ability for argumentation.

P1- 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.

P2 – From theory to empirical research

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

Quantitative research

Qualitative research

P3 – 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

P4 – Research Plans – exemplification

The evaluation methodologies comprise two evaluation periods, namely: continuous evaluation and/or final evaluation.

MA1: Continuous Evaluation:

Continuous evalution comprises two summative assessment tests (70%: 35%+35%) that take place approximately in the middle and at the end of the semester. It also involves, from the 4th class onwards, the submission and defense of scientific papers (30%). This includes eighteen topics and encompasses the oral defense and discussion (50%) and the evaluation of the written work (50%), totaling 30% of the final grade. The assessment components considered are the scientific rigor in the treatment of the topic, the ability to present clearly and with confidence, as well as the respect of the formal rules defined by the teacher. Papers are submitted via NONIO.

NAO