Research methods in Global and Area Studies

Core Course

This course is intended to introduce Global and Area Studies majors to research methods. Qualitative, quantitative, and/or data-oriented methods and examined in detail, with a focus on the uses of AI. Theoretical frameworks informing different practices of research, including AI, are examined. Students will learn to think critically about the data underlying arguments, to check its sourcing and veracity, and to remain vigilantly sceptical amid an oversaturation of information. Students will differentiate between primary and secondary sources, learn to navigate print and online library sources, electronic databases, reference material, and archives, engage with a variety of online data tools, including AI and non-AI software, and develop their abilities to share, present, and discuss their findings in writing, via in-person presentation, and through viva voce assessment. Students in the course are set a broad, shared topic for research and provided a variety of primary sources, secondary sources, and datasets with which to begin their work. In class-activities focus on discussion of previously completed out-of-classroom assignments, allowing for open discussions about how students completed them, so that students can learn from each other's achievements and setbacks as well as the ways their classmates responded those setbacks.

Non-permissible combination: EUST2010 or SINO2004

[Note to students admitted in 2023-24 and before: Students who have successfully completed “EUST2010. European identity” or “SINO2004. Research skills for China Studies” are not allowed to take this course. For those who have not yet done so, they can take GLAS2001 to fulfil the requirement of Major/Minor in European Studies or Major/Minor in China Studies (Arts Stream) respectively in the academic year 2024-25 and thereafter.]