RESEARCH METHODS

Duration: 40 hours (5 days)

Number of Participants: 15-20

Pre-requisite: Master’s degree in social science or any other relevant discipline. Background in social science research will be an asset.

Instructors:

Dr. Dirgha Ghimire, Research Associate Professor, University of Michigan  

Dr. Prem Bhandari, Senior Research Scientist, ISER-N

Ms. Rija Manandhar, Research Officer, ISER-N

Mr. Binoj K. Shrestha, Research Associate, ISER-N

Course Description

The purpose of this course is to provide an overview of different research methods commonly used in social and environmental research. Broad topics include: (a) Archival Research; (b) Ethnographic Research; (c) Survey Research; and (d) Environmental/Spatial Research. Under each method, specific topics include: social science as science; theory and research; question formulation and research design; measurement issues; methods and techniques of data collection, instrument design, data analysis, and report writing. Ethics in social research will also be discussed.

This interactive course uses a combination of lecture, in-class exercises, group exercises and individual participation. Individual consultation will be provided to assist participants with the assignments leading to a grant proposal.

Assignments throughout the week should be emailed or handed in a shard copy the day they are due. Feedback will be provided in a timely manner to aid in future assignments.

Upon completion of this course, participants will:

  • Understand strength and weakness of each of the research methods.
  • Learn to choose appropriate research method to answer specific research question.