Syllabus

Comparative Methods in Political Science with a Focus on Africa

Code
ASK297
Points
7 Credits
Level
Second Cycle
School
School of Culture and Society
Subject field
Political Science (SKA)
This course can be included in the following main field(s) of study
Political Science1
Progression indicator within (each) main field of study
1A1N
Approved
Approved, 16 June 2023.
This syllabus is valid from 14 August 2023.
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Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • independently present different forms of comparative methods that are applied in the context of the African continent
  • problematise and critically reflect on different comparative research methods and analyses
  • independently choose a suitable research design and method
  • manage research ethical aspects and considerations.

Course Content

The course focuses on comparative methods applied in the context of Africa. The course deals with different types of comparative methods and their main approaches, basic assumptions, merits and problems. The course also covers research design and how methods are chosen in relation to a research question. The course problematises the relationship between the quantitative and qualitative method families and also looks at research ethics considerations.

Assessment

  • Active participation in seminars
  • Written assignments

Grades

The grading scale used for the final course grade is A–F.

 

Grades are reported as follows:

  • Comparative Methods in Political Science with a Focus on Africa - 7 Credits | A–F

Prerequisites

  • 180 credits, of which 90 credits in Political Science, Sociology, International Relations, Human Rights or Peace and Conflict Studies and 7 credits in Research Method with a specialisation in the Social Sciences or Humanities and English 6

Other Information

The language of instruction is English. Part of the course is taught online, which requires that students have access to a computer and the Internet.

This course cannot be counted towards the same degree along with courses that have equivalent content.

If the student has received a decision/recommendation granting study support from Dalarna University because of a disability, then the examiner has the right to offer an alternative examination arrangement. The examiner takes into account the objectives in the course syllabus when deciding whether the examination can be adapted in accordance with the decision/recommendation.