Studying Cities: Social Science Methods for Urban Research
Learn essential social science research methods for urban studies: From research design to data analysis.
Learn essential social science research methods for urban studies: From research design to data analysis.
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to social science research methods with a focus on urban and local development studies. Learn the research cycle from problem statement to data analysis, covering both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Gain practical skills in research design, data collection, and analysis techniques essential for Master-level urban research.
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What you'll learn
Understand the components of research design and formulate effective research questions
Develop theoretical frameworks and operationalize concepts for empirical research
Learn various research strategies and their applications in urban studies
Gain skills in quantitative and qualitative data collection methods
Understand basic principles of data analysis for both quantitative and qualitative data
Apply research methods knowledge to evaluate and design urban research proposals
Skills you'll gain
This course includes:
4 Hours PreRecorded video
5 assignments
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FullTime access
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There are 5 modules in this course
This course offers a comprehensive introduction to social science research methods, with a specific focus on urban and local development studies. It covers the entire research cycle, from formulating a problem statement and research question to data collection and analysis. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in both quantitative and qualitative research techniques. Key topics include research design, theoretical frameworks, operationalization, research strategies (such as surveys, experiments, case studies, and desk research), and data collection methods. The course also covers data analysis techniques for both quantitative and qualitative data. Through video lectures, quizzes, and a final peer-reviewed assignment, students will gain practical skills essential for conducting Master-level urban research.
Research Topic
Module 1 · 1 Hours to complete
Theoretical Framework and Operationalization
Module 2 · 52 Minutes to complete
Research Strategies
Module 3 · 1 Hours to complete
Quantitative and Qualitative Data
Module 4 · 1 Hours to complete
Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis
Module 5 · 2 Hours to complete
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Instructors
Research Assistant at Erasmus University Rotterdam
Laura Neijenhuis is a Research Assistant at Erasmus University Rotterdam, where she contributes to research projects focused on urban housing, social housing, and heritage. Prior to her role at the university, she worked as a trainee at the Netherlands Embassy in Romania, where she conducted her master's thesis on "National Identity in the Post-Communist Era: A Comparative Analysis of Romania and Estonia." During her time at the embassy, Laura researched the inclusion of Roma children in education and examined the housing situation and eviction issues faced by the Roma minority in Romania. Her research interests encompass geopolitics, conflict and cooperation, national and regional identities, as well as sustainable development. At Erasmus University, she also plays a significant role in supporting educational activities, particularly in courses such as "Developing Social Housing Projects," while participating in advisory projects related to urban housing development. Laura is also an instructor for the Coursera course "Studying Cities: Social Science Methods for Urban Research," where she helps students understand research methodologies in an urban context.
Head of Education & Training at Erasmus University Rotterdam
Dr. Jan Fransen is the Head of Education & Training and Deputy Director at the Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS) at Erasmus University Rotterdam. He holds a PhD and MA in Development Studies and has over 20 years of experience in research, education, and consultancy focused on local economic development, particularly in relation to small firms, urban employment, and innovation systems. Dr. Fransen coordinates the urban theory course within the Master's program on Urban Management and Development and co-coordinates a short course on Sustainable Local Economic Development. His previous experience includes working for the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in Eastern and Southern Africa. He has completed numerous consultancy and training assignments for organizations such as the World Bank, European Commission, and various UN agencies, while also engaging in research projects across more than 20 countries worldwide, including Kenya, Indonesia, and China. Dr. Fransen is actively involved in advising on urban resilience and community-based organizations, contributing significantly to the discourse on sustainable urban development.
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4.7 course rating
218 ratings
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