Research Design

Course introduction
 

The Master's programme at IHS includes a significant focus on designing and implementing academic research in urban studies. The Research Design (RD) course is essential for guiding students in creating academic research within the social sciences and independently developing their Master’s thesis. Alongside the two Urban Data Analytics courses (UDA 1: quantitative and UDA 2: qualitative), the RD course equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to design, implement, and compose a research project that meets the standards of a Master’s thesis. Students will have the chance to develop key components of their thesis, such as the research question, problem statement, conceptual framework, and research methodology. The course also provides students an overview of research strategies and methods, including both quantitative and qualitative approaches, and offers guidance on how to operationalize research concepts effectively.

Course objectives

The course introduces the basics of social science research and offers a practical guide to developing a research framework. By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Recognize the fundamentals of a valid research question (and sub-research questions when applicable)
• Associate a research question with an academically sound justification (i.e., problem statement)
• Recognize elements contained in a competent literature review.
• Identify the critical elements necessary for a compelling conceptual framework.
• Distinguish why research design choices are made in consideration of the research questions, data, and limitations.
• Deduce the objectives and elements in the formulation of an empirical strategy for data and variables, i.e., the translation of concepts into indicators, and presenting a clear explanation for methodological choices.
• Outline how to present and discuss analysis results.
• Recognize the ethical implications of social science research.
• Apply the elements above in the development of a master’s research project.

Course structure

The course will run from January through March, alongside the specialization tracks. It consists of eight lecture sessions scheduled on Fridays each week, and another eight tutorial sessions to complement the lectures. The tutorial sessions will be scheduled based on the time and staff availability within each specialization track. Each week, students will tackle a different component of their research project, culminating in a final poster assignment due at the end of the course. In preparation for this final assignment, students will complete two non-graded assignments. Feedback for these assignments will be provided during the tutorials, which will also offer multiple opportunities for addressing questions and clarifying doubts.

Learning and Teaching Methodology

This course utilizes a variety of learning methods, including lectures, tutorials, self-study, group discussions, and student presentations. Each week, new topics are introduced through lectures, and students will have the chance to apply this newfound knowledge to their own research projects during the tutorial sessions. As the course progresses, students can discuss their research ideas in smaller groups with peers and specialization coordinators. They will also have the opportunity to test their understanding and receive feedback through various formative assignments. The course culminates in a final poster assignment, where students will design and present their research ideas both visually and orally to an audience, allowing them to showcase their learning and creativity.

Course information