This is an archived course. A more recent version may be available at ocw.mit.edu.

Calendar

LEC # TOPICS KEY DATES
Part I: The Scientific Method
1 Introduction and Course Overview  
2 Models and Theories in Political Science  
Part II: Methods of Research
3 Introduction to Research Design and the Experimental Method  
4 Case Studies, Comparing Cases, and Statistical Analysis Exercise 1 Due (Questions of Validity)
Part III: Gathering Data
5 Selecting and Sampling Cases Statement of Research Due
6 Observation, Measurement, and Political Implications I  
7 Observation, Measurement, and Political Implications II  
Part IV: Guest Lectures
8 Stephen Ansolabehere Exercise 2 Due (Measurement)
9 TBA Literature Review Due
Part V: Student Presentations
10 Group 1  
11 Group 2  
12 Group 3  
Part VI: Conclusions
13 Final Thoughts: Ethics and Political Research Final Paper Due