This course focuses on methodology and methods specific to developing and carrying out qualitative,quantitative, and mixed methods research projects on regulation, governance, and crime. It provides concepts, tools and practical knowledge to assist students in developing robust research projects. It covers key aspects of doing research such as the development of research questions, epistemological approaches, sampling, specific research methods, data management and analysis. In addition, students analyse and compare different research designs used within the fields of regulation, governance, and crime. The format combines lectures with hands-on activities and workshops, allowing students to explore a number of different approaches. The course offers students opportunities to discuss common ethical issues, with particular attention paid to concerns that emerge in carrying out research in the region, and provides an overview about ways of presenting research findings. The course will address challenges in designing, generating, and communicating evidence specific to the fields of regulation, governance, and crime.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Critically evaluate qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods research as an empirical social science agenda, including different concepts, approaches and methods
2. Develop a research design based on a solid understanding of concepts and tools of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methodology
3. Assess the relevance and appropriateness of various research methods to specific research questions
4. Apply the techniques of various research methods in undertaking fieldwork and data collection
5. Consider the ethical issues that may arise while developing, conducting and analysing research
6. Analyse qualitative and quantitative data and present research findings clearly and concisely