Research Methods Teaching: Effective Learning Through a Discipline Embedded Approach UALTC, January...
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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