290618 PSE Research designs and Methods on Migration and Population Dynamics in the context of Global Change (2026S)

Qualitative research methods play a central role in the social scientific analysis of migration, environmental and climate change. In particular, in human–environment research and interdisciplinary fields, qualitative approaches have gained importance because they allow for the investigation of dimensions of social processes—such as perceptions, negotiations, interpretative frameworks and decision-making logics—that cannot be adequately captured by quantitative methods alone.
The aim of this course is to provide students with both conceptual and practical competences in the use of qualitative research methods. The focus lies explicitly on moving beyond a purely descriptive understanding of approaches, methods and procedures, and on developing the ability to independently elaborate coherent research designs, critically reflect on methodological decisions, and practically implement qualitative research under realistic conditions.

The course therefore integrates two closely connected learning strands:
1. the teaching of methodological and conceptual foundations of qualitative social research, including qualitative approaches, paradigms, research designs, quality criteria and research ethics; and
2. the practical application of qualitative methods within a research project that covers the entire research process from planning to analysis under realistic conditions.

This dual structure enables students to understand qualitative research both as an analytical and conceptual mode of thinking and as a practical, social and iterative activity.

Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, students are able to:
- explain key paradigms and logics of qualitative social research;
- develop qualitative research questions and justify the selection of appropriate methods of data collection and analysis;
- independently elaborate a coherent and feasible qualitative research design;
- practically apply qualitative methods of data collection (e.g. interviews) and analysis;
- critically reflect on and justify methodological decisions;
- plan, conduct and evaluate research processes;
- assess the quality of qualitative research designs and research outcomes;
- reflect on their own learning processes and methodological competences, particularly with regard to future Master’s theses.

Course content
The course addresses, among other topics:
- qualitative research paradigms and epistemological foundations;
- research designs in qualitative social research;
- methods of qualitative data collection (e.g. semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions);
- qualitative data analysis (e.g. coding, thematic analysis);
- quality criteria in qualitative research;
- reflexivity, research ethics and practical challenges of fieldwork;
- the relationship between research questions, methods, analysis and knowledge production;
- qualitative research in the context of migration, environmental and climate change.

Teaching and learning methods
The course is based on a combination of:
- short inputs by the lecturer;
- interactive exercises and discussions;
- presentation, critical discussion and further development of individual research designs;
- teamwork focused on the planning and implementation of a qualitative research project;
- practice-oriented exercises in data collection, transcription and analysis;
- reflective phases aimed at situating methodological decisions and research experiences.

The course follows a research-oriented and practice-based learning approach.