TLÜ ÕIS

Modern Research Methods in Social-Behavioral Sciences

Course code

PSP8041.LT

old course code

PSP8041

Course title in Estonian

Kaasaegsed uurimismeetodid sotsiaal- ja käitumisteadustes

Course title in English

Modern Research Methods in Social-Behavioral Sciences

ECTS credits

6.0

Assessment form

Examination

lecturer of 2025/2026 Autumn semester

Not opened for teaching. Click the study programme link below to see the nominal division schedule.

lecturer of 2025/2026 Spring semester

Not opened for teaching. Click the study programme link below to see the nominal division schedule.

Course aims

To give survey of the main research methods of the modern social and behavioral sciences and to help understanding theoretical problems related to use of these methods. To understand relationships between theory and research methodology.

Only social science doctoral student can attend the course.

Brief description of the course

Main research methods of modern social sciences: quantitative and qualitative approaches. Main shortcomings of quantitative approaches: shortcomings related to mathematical data analysis; shortcomings that stem from ignoring the essence of the studied phenomena. Main shortcomings of qualitative research methods: shortcomings related to non-interference with the studied phenomena; limitations related to the kinds of collected data.
Seminars and independent work (reading, writing analytical summaries).

Learning outcomes in the course

Upon completing the course the student:
- has understanding of main research methods of the modern social and behavioral sciences
- understands problems related to use of these methods.

Teacher

Prof Aaro Toomela

Study programmes containing that course