Introduction to Social Research Methodology - JSM692

• Title: Introduction to Social Research Methodology
• Form of teaching: lecture+practicals
• Guaranteed by: Department of Sociology (23-KS)
• Faculty: Faculty of Social Sciences
• Actual: from 2026
• Duration in semesters: 1
• Semester: winter
• E-Credits: 9
• Examination process: winter s.:combined
• Hours per week, examination: winter s.:2/2, Ex [HT]
• Capacity: 24 / 24 (24)
• Maximum number of enrolled students: 24
• Min. number of students: unlimited
• 4EU+: no
• Virtual mobility / capacity: no
• State of the course: taught
• Language: English
• Teaching methods: full-time
• Repeated enrollment: 2 / 2 / 1 / 2
• Note: course can be enrolled in outside the study plan; enabled for web enrollment; priority enrollment if the course is part of the study plan
• Guarantor: prof. PhDr. Hynek Jeřábek, CSc.; Mgr. Jiří Remr, Ph.D.
• Teacher(s): Mgr. Jiří Remr, Ph.D.
• Class: Courses for incoming students
• Incompatibility : JSB015, JSB529, JSM540
• Is incompatible with: JSM548, JSM540

Annotation

This foundational course introduces students to the core principles and practices of scientific inquiry in the social sciences. The course provides a structured overview of key methodological approaches, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods, and guides students through the essential stages of the research process. Topics include formulating research questions, defining concepts and indicators, designing research frameworks, selecting appropriate data collection methods, and addressing issues of validity, reliability, and ethics.
The course emphasizes developing practical skills and a critical understanding of how methodological choices influence research outcomes. Through a combination of lectures, readings, and hands-on exercises, students will develop the confidence and competence necessary to design and evaluate research in various social science disciplines.

The course is suitable for students in fields such as sociology, psychology, political science, education, and economics. It provides a solid foundation for further study or applied research work.

Last update: Remr Jiří, Mgr., Ph.D. (14.09.2026)

Aim of the course

Course Objectives:

This course has multiple learning objectives for students. Students will be expected to develop the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:
     a. Understand the nature and purpose of social research.
     b. Learn relevant vocabulary and terminology.
     c. Understand a wide array of research methods and techniques.

The class meets in Room B216 of the Jinonice Building from 8:00 to 10:50 a.m. on Wednesdays, from September 30 to December 16, 2026.

Last update: Remr Jiří, Mgr., Ph.D. (15.09.2026)

Course completion requirements

Examination:

Students are required to take midterm and final exams (closed-book; single best answer).

Last update: Remr Jiří, Mgr., Ph.D. (14.09.2026)

Literature

Required Readings:

Babbie, E. (2020). The Practice of Social Research. London: Wadsworth Publishing Company.

 

Additional Readings:

Andrews, R. (2003). Research Questions. London: Continuum.

Singleton, Jr., R. A., B. C. Straits, and M. M. Straits. 2017. Approaches to Social Research. Oxford: Oxford University Press (6th ed.).

Last update: Remr Jiří, Mgr., Ph.D. (14.09.2026)

Course assessment methods and requirements for successful completion, grading scheme

Grading:

     91-100% = A

     81-90% = B

     71-80% = C

     61-70% = D

     51-60% = E

     50% or less = F (failed)

Last update: Remr Jiří, Mgr., Ph.D. (14.09.2026)

Syllabus

Course Schedule:

Lecture 01: Introduction to Inquiry

Lecture 02: Process of Social Research and Its Key Elements

Lecture 03: Research Design

Lecture 04: Types of data, variables, and peculiarities of defining indicators

Lecture 05: Sampling techniques

Lecture 06: Modes of Unobtrusive and Qualitative Data Collection

Lecture 07: Midterm test

Lecture 08: Modes of quantitative data collection

Lecture 09: Research instruments and questionnaire design

Lecture 10: Analysis of Research Findings and Research Ethics

Lecture 11: Data Visualization and Presentation of Research Findings

Lecture 12: Final exam (December 16, 2026)

Last update: Remr Jiří, Mgr., Ph.D. (14.09.2026)

Learning outcomes

The goal of this course is to help students understand the nature and purpose of social research. Students will learn relevant vocabulary and terminology, as well as gain an understanding of a variety of research methods and techniques.

Last update: Remr Jiří, Mgr., Ph.D. (14.09.2026)