32513
Graduate Course
WiSe 14/15: Theories and Methods
Christian Lammert
Comments
In the first section of the course, we will study the major approaches to studying political science and social science. Students should be able to identify and apply these approaches to various topics in American politics. We will put particular emphasis on what constitutes the scientific method in political (and social) science, or if such a method is even possible. In the second section of the course, we will address several topics in American politics (one per week), and examine theories that attempt to explain political phenomena, often using seminal readings on the subject. The specific learning objectives that this course fulfills include:
possess a factual and theoretical knowledge of countries, political processes, political theories, and political thought (with an emphasis on theoretical knowledge of political theories)
use appropriate methods of analysis and research, including qualitative and quantitative methods, historical comparison, and textual interpretation to answer political questions
write professional-grade research papers on political science questions
communicate effectively by presenting ideas in a high-quality oral presentation
think critically, analytically, and synthetically
properly cite sources using a recognized citation style
participate effectively in political processes by having an appropriate knowledge of international and national politics and political thought
The course will be conducted primarily as a seminar. Therefore, it is incumbent that you have read the material to be discussed during each class prior to the class. It is expected that you will attend regularly and come prepared to participate in the discussion. I actively encourage questions, interruptions, cries for help, protest of disbeliefs, etc. close
16 Class schedule
Regular appointments
Wed, 2014-10-15 10:00 - 12:00
Wed, 2014-10-22 10:00 - 12:00
Wed, 2014-10-29 10:00 - 12:00
Wed, 2014-11-05 10:00 - 12:00
Wed, 2014-11-12 10:00 - 12:00
Wed, 2014-11-19 10:00 - 12:00
Wed, 2014-11-26 10:00 - 12:00
Wed, 2014-12-03 10:00 - 12:00
Wed, 2014-12-10 10:00 - 12:00
Wed, 2014-12-17 10:00 - 12:00
Wed, 2015-01-07 10:00 - 12:00
Wed, 2015-01-14 10:00 - 12:00
Wed, 2015-01-21 10:00 - 12:00
Wed, 2015-01-28 10:00 - 12:00
Wed, 2015-02-04 10:00 - 12:00
Wed, 2015-02-11 10:00 - 12:00