Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/shehu-yanjiu-fangfa
Embarking on a journey into the intricacies of social phenomena requires a robust understanding of research methodologies. Coursera’s ‘Methodologies in Social Research (Part I)’ course, taught in Mandarin with English subtitles, offers a comprehensive introduction to the tools, techniques, and theoretical underpinnings of social inquiry. This course is not just about collecting data; it’s about developing a scientific mindset to observe, measure, analyze, and communicate about the complex tapestry of human society.
The course masterfully breaks down the subject matter, starting with the fundamentals in Week 0, ‘About This Course,’ setting the stage for what lies ahead. Week 1, ‘Science and Social Research,’ delves into the unique characteristics of social phenomena compared to natural ones, exploring researchable questions (using the example of China’s Spring Festival travel rush) and crucial ethical considerations like informed consent.
Weeks 2 and 3 are pivotal, focusing on ‘Social Science Research and Theory’ and ‘Principles of Social Survey and Research Methods,’ respectively. Here, the course emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between theory and empirical research, and introduces the foundational principles of scientific experimentation, a cornerstone of rigorous social science.
The practical aspects of research take center stage from Week 4 onwards. ‘Problem Selection and Data Acquisition in Social Science Research’ guides learners through identifying research questions and understanding different forms of data. ‘Concepts, Variables, and Measurement’ (Week 5) is a deep dive into conceptualization, operationalization, and the crucial process of measurement, including different levels of variable measurement and reliability testing.
Sampling is demystified in Week 6, ‘Sampling Design,’ explaining its importance for efficient data collection, sources of sampling error, and the distinctions between probability and non-probability sampling. Finally, Week 7, ‘Implementation Plan and Research Design,’ equips students with the skills to draft essential research proposals and implementation plans, crucial for collaborative research projects.
Overall, ‘Methodologies in Social Research (Part I)’ is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to understand the scientific approach to studying society. Whether you’re a student, a budding researcher, or simply curious about how social trends are analyzed, this course provides a solid foundation. The instructors’ ability to connect abstract concepts to real-world examples, such as the Spring Festival travel, makes the learning process engaging and accessible. The structured syllabus ensures a logical progression of knowledge, building from theoretical concepts to practical application. I highly recommend this course for its clarity, depth, and practical relevance in the field of social research.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/shehu-yanjiu-fangfa