ResearchMethods/ResearchDesign/Approaches

Levels of analysis: Micro, Meso, and Macro

Learning objectives

1. Describe a narrative approach to research, and provide an example of a narrative-based study.
2. Describe a survey approach to research, and provide an example of a survey based study.
3. Describe a comparative approach to research, and provide an example of a comparative study.
4. Describe a case study approach to research, and provide an example of a case-based study.
5. Describe archival approach to research, and provide an example of an archival study.

As we've discussed, there are different research design approaches for research in plitical sicence. In this moduile we will get to know some of the common designs.

Narrative

[Video]

Archival

Key points

• Sociological research can occur at any of the following three analytical levels: micro, meso, or macro.
• Some topics lend themselves to one particular analytical level while others could be studied from any, or all, of the three levels of analysis.

Activity

1. Think of your research topic. From what analytical level do you think it makes sense to study your topic? Why? Tell your research centre about that!
2. Comment on the analytical level that two of your centre members chose. Explain why you agree or disagree, or if you have something to add tho their decision.
3. Find an example of published political science research that examines a single topic from each of the three analytical levels. Describe how the researcher employs each of the three levels in her or his analysis.

Attribution: based on Blackstone, 2012