166-410 Approaches to Political & Social Inquiry

This is a compulsory subject for students writing their honours thesis in political science and public policy and management. It is normally only available to students doing their thesis in political science, public policy and management or sociology.

Admission to the postgraduate diploma or fourth-year honours in political science, public policy and management or sociology.

This subject examines contemporary approaches to political and social inquiry. It reviews a range and diversity of perspectives used in the study of politics and society. The subject explores how different theoretical orientations generate and inform differing research programs. Consideration of the adequacy and suitability of various research strategies will be linked to current theoretical debates and controversies. The subject gives special attention to the design of problem-driven research. It will assist students to develop skills in thesis preparation and development as well as in the framing of research projects more generally. The subject will combine a number of formats including seminars, workshops and hands-on sessions dealing with research resources.

• be able to apply research skills and critical methods to a field of inquiry;

• be able to develop persuasive arguments on a given topic;

• be able to communicate oral and written arguments and ideas effectively and articulately.

A research proposal study of 5000 words 100% (due in week 5).

A subject reader will be available.