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ECO715Social Sciences3 Unitsintermediate

Research Methodology

This course introduces postgraduate students to research methodology in economics. It covers the philosophy of economic research, identification of researchable problems, and hypothesis development. Students will learn data collection methods, research result presentation, and techniques for establishing relationships between economic variables. The course also explores model building, multivariate analysis, causality tests, and Chi-square tests. A seminar paper is required to enhance practical application of research methods.

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156h
Study Time
13
Weeks
12h
Per Week
intermediate
Math Level
Course Keywords
Research MethodologyEconomic ResearchData AnalysisModel BuildingHypothesis Testing

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level
Builds on foundational knowledge
65%
intermediate
📊
Math Level
Moderate Math
📖
Learning Type
Theoretical Focus

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Research Methodology

2

Economic Research

3

Data Collection

4

Data Analysis

5

Model Building

6

Hypothesis Testing

7

Bivariate Analysis

8

Multivariate Analysis

9

Research Reporting

Total Topics9 topics

Requirements

Knowledge and skills recommended for success

Basic knowledge of economic theories

Basic statistics and social sciences analytical techniques

💡 Don't have all requirements? Don't worry! Many students successfully complete this course with basic preparation and dedication.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

tutor-marked assessments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

final examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Economist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Research Analyst

Apply your skills in this growing field

Data Analyst

Apply your skills in this growing field

Policy Analyst

Apply your skills in this growing field

Market Research Analyst

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

EconomicsFinanceGovernmentConsultingMarket Research

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module One: Introduction to Research and Research Methods

4h

Unit 1: Introduction to Research

4 study hours
  • •Read the introduction to research.
  • •Understand the difference between research methods and methodology.
  • •Identify the characteristics of scientific research.
Week
2

Module One: Introduction to Research and Research Methods

4h

Unit 2: Philosophical and Conceptual Foundations of Research

4 study hours
  • •Explore philosophical foundations of research.
  • •Understand the concepts of facts, variables, and hypothesis.
  • •Learn the research process.
Week
3

Module Two: Data: Types and Collection Methods

4h

Unit 1: Data: Types and manipulation

4 study hours
  • •Identify different types of data.
  • •Learn data manipulation techniques.
  • •Practice transforming data for analysis.
Week
4

Module Two: Data: Types and Collection Methods

4h

Unit 2: Methods of Collecting Research Data

4 study hours
  • •Explore methods of collecting primary data.
  • •Understand the advantages and disadvantages of secondary data.
  • •Learn about observation and interview methods.
Week
5

Module Three: Basics of Model Building in Economics

4h

Unit 1: Variable Types

4 study hours
  • •Identify different types of variables.
  • •Understand the significance of dependent and independent variables.
  • •Learn how to manipulate variables.
Week
6

Module Three: Basics of Model Building in Economics

4h

Unit 2: Measurement of Variables

4 study hours
  • •Understand the scales of measuring variables.
  • •Learn about errors in measurement.
  • •Distinguish between reliability and validity.
Week
7

Module Three: Basics of Model Building in Economics

4h

Unit 3: Sampling

4 study hours
  • •Identify the steps in sampling design.
  • •Distinguish between probability and non-probability sampling.
  • •Learn about different sampling techniques.
Week
8

Module Three: Basics of Model Building in Economics

4h

Unit 4: Model Building in Economics

4 study hours
  • •Explore the types of models in economics.
  • •Understand the reasons for modeling.
  • •Learn the elements of model building.
Week
9

Module Four: Quantitative Data Analysis

4h

Unit 1: Bivariate Analysis

4 study hours
  • •Learn about correlation and scatter graphs.
  • •Understand cross tabulation and non-parametric tests.
  • •Explore difference in means.
Week
10

Module Four: Quantitative Data Analysis

4h

Unit 2: Multivariate Analysis

4 study hours
  • •Understand multiple regression.
  • •Learn about discriminant analysis.
  • •Explore multivariate analysis of variance.
Week
11

Module Five: Research Organisation and Reporting

4h

Unit 1: Manuscript Structure and Contents

4 study hours
  • •Learn about manuscript structure.
  • •Understand the contents of a research report.
  • •Explore the elements of a title and abstract.
Week
12

Module Five: Research Organisation and Reporting

4h

Unit 2: Basics of Citing Sources

4 study hours
  • •Understand in-text citation.
  • •Learn about reference lists.
  • •Explore how to cite different sources.
Week
13

Module Five: Research Organisation and Reporting

4h

Revision

4 study hours
  • •Review all modules and units.
  • •Work on assignments.
  • •Prepare for final examination.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

Read the complete course material as provided by NOUN.

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Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Review all study units and referenced materials thoroughly.

2

Practice solving quantitative problems from the units on bivariate and multivariate analysis.

3

Focus on understanding the assumptions and limitations of different research methods.

4

Create summaries of key concepts and formulas for quick reference.

5

Practice writing concise and well-supported answers to essay questions.

6

Review previous assignments and tutor-marked assessments to identify areas for improvement.

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