POLS265 Political Data Analysis
Schram
Fall 2006

FIRST RESEARCH EXERCISE

For this exercise, you must complete both parts.

Part 1: Take a Positivist perspective focused on explaining causality.

State a hypothesis for testing quantitatively. Indicate the independent and dependent variables for the hypothesis. Describe in detail a study that could be done that would enable you to collect data that could be used to test the hypothesis. Briefly indicate qualitative data collection that could help triangulate your study and provide additional information pertinent to your topic.

Part 2: Take an Interpretivist perspective focused on understanding meaning.

State a subject for investigation qualitatively. Indicate key dimensions of the subject that you want to examine and explain why they are significant and worthy of study. Describe in detail a study that could be done that could be used to gather data that could deepen your understanding of the topic. Briefly indicate quantitative data collection that could help triangulate your study and provide additional information pertinent to your topic.

This assignment should be 4-5 pages typewritten, double-spaced and submitted in class Monday, September 25, 2006.