There is still anongoing debate on whether quantitative and/or qualitative methods are more appropriate to answer different research questions. Yet, both methodological approaches offer valuable contributions depending on the aim of research. While qualitative studies are suited for theory creation and require primarily exploratory designs (constructivist or phenomenological approaches), quantitative research seeks to test theories by quantifying structured data (statistical analysis). The course coversspecial topics in both, in qualitative and quantitative methods.

In the quantitative part of the course, a variety of methods will betaught so as to prepare students to conduct research in the area of demographic studies, environmental research, social policy and regional development.

In the qualitative part the aim is to develop mixed methods research designs which fit to the topics and questions of the students’ projects. With a special focus onthe premises and basic ideas of empirical research, we look at ways of howthese are implemented adequately in the designs. Furthermore, this part will focus on the qualitative method of expert interviews. Students will generateand analyse qualitative data.

After successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

- develop or deepen a research question (based on the state of the art and on theories)

- specify a mixed methods research strategy in more depth (empirical design)

- to adopt particular methods: first, to formulate quantitative hypotheses and to analyse data using econometric techniques: regression analysis, discrete and continuous models, second to conduct qualitative expert interviews

- to analyse, interpret and try to link the varying results from quantitative and qualitative methods

- to present research results (including a quality assessment)

- to write a research report

Students are expected to:

- prepare the literature for discussions in class

- actively participate in discussions and assignments in class

- submit a research design

- to select data

- to apply methods

- to analyse and interpret data

- to submit a research report

80% attendance of the class is required! If you miss a class, please inform us in advance!

Design of Teaching

drafting andapplying a research design, presentation, discussion, readings followed by aquestion-answer session to the obligatory texts and practical exercises.

Exigencies

Active participation in class, groupassignments, presentation in class, final seminar paper on own project

Practical exercises in the framework of a group work dealing with a special topic willenhance the students’ understanding and ability to critically assess empiricalstudies and to apply those methods which are adequate for answering specificquestions.

- individual Tasks (assignments): 25%

- Group Tasks: 60%

Gunther.Maier@wu.ac.at

Barbara.Haas@wu.ac.at