Methods Teaching Through a Research-Oriented Approach 3rd PSA Learning and Teaching Group Conference, September 2010 Cristina Leston-Bandeira University of Hull

Contents  Methods and Politics  Approaches to teaching methods in politics  Research - Teaching nexus to enhance methods teaching  Context for new provision in methods  Engaging students  Outcomes  Challenges

Methods and Politics Roberts agenda / ESRC investment 2007 international benchmarking Very strong divide: Quants vs Non-Quants Strong differentiation of those who can Politics students’ characteristics

Approaches to teaching methods in politics Compulsory in only third / 44% of Departments Differentiated from politics Lack of integration across programmes Difficult to teach, not engaging

Research - teaching nexus to enhance methods teaching Relationship teaching - research, a complex one But engaging way to learn promotion of research skills Particularly through active learning discipline focused “students are likely to gain most benefit from research when they are actively involved in carrying out research projects” (Healey, 2005)

Context for new provision in methods Second year compulsory module Focused on the research process Integration with discipline Research-oriented Long-thin Blended teaching Standardisation of programmes structure Need for provision in methods, but how? What for? Sophisticated use of quants or development of research skills?

Paths of Research in Politics A means to develop their interests in politics Choice, definition and implementation Research Proposal (20%) + Research Report (80%) Cater for individual topics Individual support Variety of methodologies

Paths of Research in Politics VLE: at the centre Lectures: preparatory tasks with associated activity Workshops Multiple handouts The Ethics Issues The Rough Guides

Engaging students Defining Research Question Through Forums Lecture tasks Linked to their research interest Basis for activity in lecture FAQs in Forum Continuity of support Meeting diversity of research styles Workshops Essential Individual support Browsing through past work Blogger For diary logs Reflective Statement Wiki for reliable weblinks

Outcomes Innovative, varied and excellent research projects What was the extent of the effect of Thatcher on Popular Culture? Does Blair answer the question? What contributed to the development of the Burmese movement for democracy? Do Swedish MEPs vote differently on green issues? Very good feedback (GPA= 3.31)feedback

“Interesting module - refreshing to have a module in which I can have independence to do my own work.” “The mini tasks set for each lecture were useful in increasing my understanding of various aspects of research and motivation to do the module.”’ “The activities were interesting in the lectures.” “Workshop style structure was very useful.” “Doing research on my own was different and very interesting. I really feel I have learnt a lot of new things which will help me with the rest of my degree and the help and support has been fantastic.”

Outcomes Many of the topics and/or methods further developed at dissertation and/or placement projects Model replicated in new research based modules

Challenges To deal with 80+ different topics Time! Ideally, 20 students per tutor Keep continuity of contact through VLE Keep setting targets and chasing progress

Conclusions Paths works because it engages students in the process of doing research Development of research skills led by interest in politics Blended learning approach: key

Any questions? - Thank you