online course Working with Concepts

This online course delves into two different approaches to conceptualisation – the positivist approach and the interpretivist approach. Upon completing this course, you will have a solid understanding of the concepts and techniques covered, coupled with hands-on experience in their application.

The course combines asynchronous pre-class assignments, such as readings and pre-recorded videos, and three hours of live teaching each day. Each live session will give you the opportunity to join in class discussion and afford you practice in reconstructing and elucidating a concept that you have chosen yourself.

There is no prior knowledge required for this course. All the information you need will be covered in the lectures and tutorials.

ECTS Credits

4 credits – Engage fully in class activities and complete a post-class assignment.

Instructor

Frederic Schaffer is a Professor of Political Science at the University of Massachusetts Amherst where he teaches comparative politics. His research examines the meaning and practice of democracy across cultures and back in time. His methodological writings develop language-centred approaches to foundational research tasks like comparing, interviewing, and working with concepts.

You can find more information here.