Login Create Account

Back to Course Catalog

PCR716Social Sciences3 Unitsintermediate

Research Methods In Peace Studies & Conflict Resolution

This course introduces students to research methods in peace and conflict resolution. It covers theoretical paradigms, research processes, and qualitative and quantitative methods. Students will learn to write research proposals, analyze data, and apply case studies. The course aims to enhance students' capacity to contribute to conflict resolution efforts within communities and build peace in societies.

Take a Practice Test Generate AI Study Notes

Take a practice test or generate AI study notes to help you excel in this course.

200h

Study Time

13

Weeks

15h

Per Week

basic

Math Level

Course Keywords

Research MethodsConflict ResolutionPeace StudiesQualitative ResearchQuantitative Research

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level

Builds on foundational knowledge

65%

intermediate

➕

Math Level

Basic Math

📖

Learning Type

Theoretical Focus

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Theoretical Paradigms in Research

2

Parts and Classification of Theory

3

Dimensions of Research

4

Tools and Perspectives of Research

5

Steps of the Research Process

6

Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods

7

Data Analysis

8

Research Designs

9

Sampling

10

Reliability and Validity

Total Topics10 topics

Ready to Start

No specific requirements needed

This course is designed to be accessible to all students. You can start immediately without any prior knowledge or specific preparation.

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

Peace and Conflict Resolution Specialist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Policy Analyst

Apply your skills in this growing field

Researcher

Apply your skills in this growing field

Mediator

Apply your skills in this growing field

Diplomat

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

GovernmentNon-Governmental OrganizationsInternational OrganizationsAcademiaConsulting

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week

1

Module 1:

2h

Unit 1: Overview of Theoretical Paradigms in Research

2 study hours

•Read the unit introduction to understand the scientific method and its application to social sciences.
•Define key concepts: variables, hypothesis, and parsimony.
•Discuss the relationship between hypotheses, variables, and theory.

Week

2

Module 1:

2h

Unit 2: The Parts of a Theory

2 study hours

•Examine the nature of concepts and their relationships.
•Discuss the scope of theories and levels of abstraction.
•Define and differentiate between abstract and concrete concepts.

Week

3

Module 1:

2h

Unit 3: Classification of Theory

2 study hours

•Understand the different forms of theory classification.
•Distinguish between deductive and inductive reasoning.
•Understand the levels of theory: micro, meso, and macro.

Week

4

Module 1:

2h

Unit 4: Dimension of Research

2 study hours

•Explore the dimensions of research and their interrelation.
•Discuss the temporal view of research and its importance.
•Define research and its unique procedures.

Week

5

Module 2:

2h

Unit 1: Tools of Research

2 study hours

•Identify and explain the general tools of research.
•Discuss the library and its resources as a tool.
•Explain measurement and statistics as tools of research.

Week

6

Module 2:

2h

Unit 2: Perspective of Research

2 study hours

•Discuss the nature of research and its application to society.
•Define research and learn how to raise research questions.
•Identify with the Problem-Solving Approach.

Week

7

Module 2:

2h

Unit 3: Steps of The Research process

2 study hours

•Explain the research process and its sequential steps.
•Identify various steps required in the research process.
•Familiarize with basic examples and principles of the social science research process.

Week

8

Module 2:

2h

Unit 4: Writing a Research Proposal

2 study hours

•Explain what a research proposal is and its purpose.
•Highlight methods of enquiring into any research project.
•Understand the importance of a well-organized proposal.

Week

9

Module 3:

2h

Unit 1: Why do we need Research?

2 study hours

•Discuss the reasons why research is embarked upon.
•Explain the time dimension in research.
•Understand the circumstances under which research can be initiated.

Week

10

Module 3:

2h

Unit 2: Data Collection

2 study hours

•Explain the sources of quantitative data in research.
•Highlight the use of questionnaires in research.
•List the uses of the survey method.
•Discuss the use of secondary sources of materials.

Week

11

Module 3:

2h

Unit 3: Qualitative Research Methods

2 study hours

•Explain the meaning and uses of qualitative data.
•Identify with Participant Observation and Focus Group Discussions.
•Discuss Ethnography and Photography.
•Define interview methods and explain Sociometry and Historiography.
•Define Content Analysis and the use of Secondary information.

Week

12

Module 3:

2h

Unit 4: Quantitative Research Methods

2 study hours

•Explain the nature of quantitative data.
•Identify with averages and means in quantitative research methods.
•Discuss standard deviation and variances.
•Explain how to analyze conflict data using quantitative methods.

Week

13

Module 7:

6h

Final Revision

6 study hours

•Review all modules and units.
•Work on assignments.
•Prepare for final exams.

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.

Access PDF Material

Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Review all tutor-marked assignments (TMAs) and their solutions to understand key concepts and methodologies.

2

Create concept maps linking theoretical paradigms (Module 1) to research methods (Modules 3 & 6).

3

Practice writing research proposals based on sample questions from Unit 4 of Module 2.

4

Focus on understanding the differences between qualitative and quantitative data analysis techniques (Module 7).

5

Study case studies (Unit 3 of Module 7) and identify key factors contributing to conflict and resolution strategies.

6

Allocate specific time slots for each module per week, following the recommended study schedule.

7

Form study groups to discuss complex topics and share insights.

8

Prioritize understanding of research designs (Module 5) and sampling methods (Unit 4 of Module 5).

9

Practice applying statistical concepts (Unit 2 of Module 7) to sample datasets.

10

Review key terms and definitions from each unit to build a strong foundation.

Related Courses

Other courses in Social Sciences that complement your learning

Research Methodology

Communication Research

Introduction To Islamic Economics

View All Social Sciences Courses