This subject is designed to build qualitative research capacities for GPS students interested in a career path as a development policy researcher within an international NGO or donor organization. This subject would also be appropriate for MPAff students interested in gaining qualitative research skills.
Students will develop an individual policy research topic of interest in a country of the student’s choosing, on an issue appropriate for a qualitative research design. Students will spend the semester building a research proposal in support of their topic, submitting components and receiving feedback along the way. Assignments include preparing an initial outline and memo explaining their topic, a literature review draft, a research design outline, protocols for a proposed interview or focus group, an in-class presentation, and a final research proposal.
Learning Objectives:
Students become an educated consumer of qualitative research design
Students understand the philosophical underpinnings of qualitative research and are able to identify and explain major qualitative research approaches and
Students are able to develop a qualitative research proposal
Students are able to navigate feasibility issues related to limited budgets, limited human resources and time to complete qualitative research,
Students become well versed in challenges related to operating in complex development research environments, such as managing field teams (locally and remotely), ins and outs of international research consultancy as a career path, etc.