Social Science Research Methods I – Quantitative Research Design, Data Collection, and Analysis

Aim

After completing the course, the student should on an advanced level be able to:

• identify and discuss concepts and methods of: ageing, life-course and social change
• critically reflect on design and methodological strengths and challenges of research within Ageing and social change
• analyse and assess complex phenomena in ageing and social change through scientific methods
• formulate research questions and problems in ageing and social change
• apply methods in order to research ageing and social change from a life-course perspective
• apply ethical aspects in relevant research and development work

Content

In this course, accelerating social change, population ageing, and improved methodological tools are discussed in how they have allowed for extended knowledge, through the empirical examination of individual dynamics and societal shifts. In the course, relevant research methodologies for the study of life-course trajectories are introduced to further understand ageing processes, life-courses, and social change across individual and historical times. Furthermore, the role of time in social research and relevant research methodologies are addressed. During the course a theoretical base within fundamental principles of research and research methods such as cross-sectional and longitudinal studies, macro-, mezzo- and microdata, sampling and measurements are presented. Ethical considerations are also addressed, and the implications and challenges currently faced when conducting and interpreting life-course studies.