What is social scientific methodology? Why do we need it? What do we really mean by scientific research? What is the difference between scientific research and common sense? Can we really be objective in our research? What is the role of subjective judgment in research?  Is experimenting on human being ethical? What data can and cannot tell you? How to tell good research from bad research? Which approach is better, qualitative or quantitative, in what situations? What are the major methods for social scientific research?

In this introductory research methodology course, we will look into the rationale of social scientific research, study the major methods in social sciences, and their pro and cons. We will learn to ask meaningful questions, practice research design, understand and evaluate research papers and last but not least, get our feet wet in the actual research practices. Throughout the quarter, we will explore topics such as how various factors promote the health of the community, the role of education in social mobility and other topics relevant to our current changing society.

Students will learn through lectures, readings, workshops, individual and group projects.