Module: Mixed Methods in Agricultural Economics and Social Sciences (4903-440)

This module not offered anymore!

Persons:

• Prof. Dr. Regina Birner (verantwortlich)

Degree Program:

• Agricultural Sciences - Agricultural Economics (Master, since 01.10.2014)
  3. Semester, elective
• Agricultural Sciences in the Tropics and Subtropics (until WS 2018/19) (Master, since 01.10.2014)
  3. Semester, elective

Relation to other Modules:

This module will focus on the integration of quantitative and qualitative methods and tools. Students are trained in conducting mixed methods research in various socio-economic domains of agriculture. The module is, thus, complementing other methodological modules that focus either on quantitative or qualitative modules.

Prerequisites for Attendance:

Students enrolling in this module should have taken at least one module on (1) either qualitative methods (e.g., “Qualitative Research Methods in Rural Development Studies” (Module 4903-470), or (2) quantitative methods, e.g., “Quantitative Methods in Economics” (Module 4901-470).

Sprache:

English

ECTS:

6 credits

Frequency:

every winter semester

Length of the Module:

1 semester

Module examination:

Group presentations on selected topics (30%) and submission of an individual research proposal with a mixed methods design (70%)

Workload:

56 h presence + 104 h preparation at home + exam = 160 h workload

Professional competences:

Students are able to identify what type of research topics and questions lend themselves to a mixed methods approach. They are familiar with the key strengths and limitations of both quantitative and qualitative methods as well as their integration within a single study. Students understand how to exploit the complementarity of qualitative and quantitative approaches for obtaining meaningful and valid findings. When discussing and assessing published mixed methods works, students use appropriate terminology and quality criteria. Students apply the acquired knowledge to different areas of research in agriculture by writing up a research proposal with a mixed methods design.

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