Methods Teaching Through a Research-Oriented Approach3rd PSA Learning and Teaching Group Conference, September 2010

Cristina Leston-BandeiraUniversity of Hull

Contents

Methods and Politics Approaches to teaching methods in politics Research - Teaching nexus to enhance methods teaching

Context for new provision in methods Engaging students

Outcomes Challenges

Methods and Politics

Roberts agenda / ESRC investment

2007 international benchmarking

Very strong divide: Quants vs Non-Quants

Strong differentiation of those who can

Politics students’ characteristics

Approaches to teaching methods in politics

Compulsory in only third / 44% of Departments

Differentiated from politics

Lack of integration across programmes

Difficult to teach, not engaging

Research - teaching nexus to enhance methods teaching

Relationship teaching - research, a complex one

But engaging way to learn promotion of research skills

Particularly through active learning discipline focused

“students are likely to gain most benefit from research when they are actively involved in carrying out research projects” (Healey, 2005)

Context for new provision in methods

Second year compulsory module

Focused on the research process Integration with disciplineResearch-oriented

Long-thinBlended teaching

Standardisation of programmes structure

Need for provision in methods, but how?

What for? Sophisticated use of quants or development of research skills?

Paths of Research in Politics

A means to develop their interests in politics

Choice, definition and implementation

Research Proposal (20%) + Research Report (80%)

Cater for individual topicsIndividual supportVariety of methodologies

Paths of Research in Politics

VLE: at the centre

Lectures: preparatory tasks with associated activity

Workshops

Multiple handoutsThe Ethics IssuesThe Rough Guides

Engaging students

Defining Research QuestionThrough Forums

Lecture tasksLinked to their research interestBasis for activity in lecture

FAQs in ForumContinuity of supportMeeting diversity of research styles

WorkshopsEssentialIndividual supportBrowsing through past work

BloggerFor diary logsReflective Statement

Wiki for reliable weblinks

Outcomes

Innovative, varied and excellent research projects

What was the extent of the effect of Thatcher on Popular Culture?Does Blair answer the question?What contributed to the development of the Burmese movement for democracy?Do Swedish MEPs vote differently on green issues?

Very good feedback (GPA= 3.31)

“Interesting module - refreshing to have a module in which I can have independence to do my own work.”

“The mini tasks set for each lecture were useful in increasing my understanding of various aspects of research and motivation to do the module.”’

“The activities were interesting in the lectures.”

“Workshop style structure was very useful.”

“Doing research on my own was different and very interesting. I really feel I have learnt a lot of new things which will help me with the rest of my degree and the help and support has been fantastic.”

Outcomes

Many of the topics and/or methods further developed at dissertation and/or placement projects

Model replicated in new research based modules

Challenges

To deal with 80+ different topics

Time! Ideally, 20 students per tutor

Keep continuity of contact through VLE

Keep setting targets and chasing progress

Conclusions

Paths works because it engages students in the process of doing research

Development of research skills led by interest in politics

Blended learning approach: key

Any questions?

- Thank you