210008 PS BAK3: Introduction to scientific work (2021W)

Aims, content and method of the course:
This course introduces students to the basic principles and research processes of scholarly work in political science. Students are required to complete regular assignments on specific topics, which are discussed in class and serve as building blocks for the final essay outline that forms the basis for the term paper. Students must have a good command of English, as all lectures, seminar materials, and assignments will be exclusively in English.

The broader aim is to equip students with the knowledge of the principles, methods and techniques in the field of social scientific work that are required for the study of political science. This includes in particular the critical use of scientific argumentation, various forms and types of scientific texts as well as the ability to develop and find answers to scientific questions. The textual work, i.e. reading, appropriating, processing, interpreting, discussing and drafting texts, is a key part of social scientific work. Therefore, it is aimed to improve reading and analytical skills in order to deal with complex issues of political theory and applied research through joint discussions of texts on various political science topics, but also transdisciplinary themes, especially with relevance to current affairs.

Fundamental scientific techniques – quoting, paraphrasing, structuring and writing – are taught and applied by means of selected texts. Particular attention will be given to addressing the issue of plagiarism. Likewise, students will be familiarized with basic strategies and techniques of social science literature review. They will also be introduced to research methods (qualitative, quantitative, comparative and case study research, triangulation) and to “soft skills” (understanding of the scope and limits of knowledge – validity and reliability issues, self-organization, workflow creation, teamwork and communication skills, presentation skills) as well as to the use of web-based e-learning platforms. It is also planned to invite international academic experts who will provide insights into their research practice.

Moreover, a particular focus will be on the preparation of the final research essay. This will be done by following a typical research workflow starting from information gathering, formulating a research question, drafting and presenting the outline (Exposé), to developing and completing the final research essay that complies with all formal scientific requirements.

The thematic guide for this seminar will include concepts, theories, methods and current issues in the fields of democracy, the state, authority, power and power relations, identity, peace and conflict studies, civil society and social change – especially against the background of the ongoing pandemic and climate crises.

!!! As indicated above, the course format and teaching method are related to the developments and possibilities arising from the Covid-19 situation. Due to the current restrictions, it is expected that the course will - until further notice - have to take place online via webinar tools (Zoom, Collaborate, BigBlueButton...) and Moodle e-learning (discussion forums, chats, assignments etc.). The first course session will take place on site in HS. 50. It is hoped that at least some more sessions can also take place face to face with all participants in the lecture hall. Please note the special regulations available here: https://studieren.univie.ac.at/en/studying-exams/studying-on-site/.
You will also be notified via Moodle in late September/early October with more detailed information about the schedule for the first session.