Research Methods Teaching: Effective Learning Through a Discipline Embedded Approach

UALTC, January 2010

Cristina Leston-BandeiraDepartment of Politics and International Studies

Contents

Methods and Politics

Approaches to teaching methods in politics

Context for new provision in methods

Engaging students

Outcomes

Challenges

Methods and Politics

Very strong divide: Quants vs Qualitative

Strong differentiation of those who can

Roberts agenda / ESRC investment

2007 international benchmarking

Politics students’ characteristics

Approaches to teaching methods in politics

Compulsory in only third of DepartmentsMain focus: method, quantitative

Differentiated from politics

Difficult to teach, not engaging

Context for new provision in methods

Second year compulsory module

Focused on the research process

Long-thin

Blended teaching

Integration with discipline

Standardisation of programmes structure

Need for provision in methods, but how?

What for? Sophisticated use of quants or development of research skills?

Paths of Research in Politics

A means to develop their interests in politics

Choice, definition and implementation

Research Proposal (20%) + Research Report (80%)

Cater for individual topicsIndividual supportVariety of methodologies

Paths of Research in Politics

VLE: at the centre

Lectures: preparatory tasks with associated activity

Workshops

Multiple handoutsThe Ethics IssuesThe Rough Guides

Engaging students

Defining Research QuestionThrough Forums

Lecture tasksLinked to their research interestBasis for activity in lecture

FAQs in ForumContinuity of supportMeeting diversity of research styles

WorkshopsEssentialIndividual supportBrowsing through past work

BloggerFor diary logsReflective Statement

Wiki for reliable weblinks

Outcomes

Innovative, varied and excellent research projects

Effect of Margaret Thatcher on Popular CultureDoes Blair answer the question?The development of the Burmese movement for democracy

Why were Obama’s speeches so inspirational?

Very good feedback (GPA= 3.30)

“Interesting module - refreshing to have a module in which I can have independence to do my own work.”

“The mini tasks set for each lecture were useful in increasing my understanding of various aspects of research and motivation to do the module.”’

“The activities were interesting in the lectures.”

“Workshop style structure was very useful.”

“Doing research on my own was different and very interesting. I really feel I have learnt a lot of new things which will help me with the rest of my degree and the help and support has been fantastic.”

Outcomes

Many of the topics and/or methods further developed at dissertation and/or placement projects

Model replicated in new research based modules

Challenges

To deal with 70+ different topics

Time! Ideally, 20 students per tutor

Keep continuity of contact through VLE

Keep setting targets and chasing progress

Conclusions

Paths works because it engages students in the process of doing research

Development of research skills led by interest in politics

Acquisition of research skills which can be further developed into any methodological style

Blended learning approach: key

Any questions?

- Thank you