Course code Soci5036
Credit points 3
Methods of Social Research
Total Hours in Course81
Number of hours for lectures16
Number of hours for seminars and practical classes16
Independent study hours49
Date of course confirmation16.03.2011
Responsible UnitInstitute of Social Sciences and Humanities
Course developers
lect.
Baiba Miltoviča
Mg. paed.
Valda Kronberga
Mg. sc. soc.
Laima Barisa
Mg. sc. soc.
Course abstract
The course introduces empirical social research, quantitative and qualitative data collection research methods. The course involves specific features of both approaches, the main research types and most commonly used data collection methods as well as processing of quantitative and qualitative data obtained, analysis and data presentation types.
Learning outcomes and their assessment
The knowledge - of empirical social studies, with an emphasis on specifics of quantitative and qualitative data collection methods.
The Skills - quantitative and qualitative data collection, processing and analysis and the resulting data presentation types; sectoral analysis of the impact of policy.
The competences - understanding of society processes and decision-making based on changes in the situation; ability to analyse and evaluate state policy sectoral documents.
Compulsory reading
1. The Sage Handbook of Social Research methods. Ed. by Alasuutari P., Bickman L., Brannen J. London: SAGE Publications, 2008. 631 p.
2. Ядов B. A. Стратегия социологического исследованияю. Уч. пос., 4-е издание. Москва: Oмега, 2009, 567 c.
3. Kroplijs A., Raščevska M. Kvalitatīvās pētniecības metodes sociālajās zinātnēs. Rīga: Raka. 2004. 178 lpp.
4. David, Matthew., Sutton C.D. Social Research. The basics. London: Sage Publications, 2004. 385 p.
Further reading
1. Добреньков В. И., Кравченко А.И . Методы социологического исследования. Москва: ИНФРА-М, 2009. 767 c.
2. Social Research Methods: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches. 4th ed. Ed. by Neuman L., W - Boston: ALLYN & BACON, 2000. 558 p.
3. Spogulis. Latvijas mutvārdu vēsture. Sast. M. Zirnīte. Rīga, 2001. 294 lpp.
Periodicals and other sources
1. Journal Humanities andSocial Sciences: Latvia . Rīga: University of Latvia, Institute of Economic, Latvian Academy of Sciences, 2007-2010 - ISSN: 1022-4483.
2. Rural Sociology. Rural Sociological Society, 2004-2006 - ISSN: 0036-0112.
3. Ежемесячный научный и общественно политический журнал Российской академии. Социологические исследования. 2000-2010. ISSN: 0132-1625.