Content and objectives
In this course, students will gain hands-on experience with qualitative research methods that are relevant for policy research, in particular ethnographic observation and in-depth interviewing.  Qualitative research methods are important tools in policy research, in particular to assess whether a program works for participants and how they understand and experience it.  We will discuss the characteristics and conventions of qualitative methods and their use in policy research.  With the help of a series of mini-lectures and hands-on exercises, students will learn how to gather and analyze qualitative data.  The goal of this course is to teach students to design a qualitative study, locate respondents, establish and maintain research relations, record, manage and code data and write policy-relevant research reports based on qualitative data.  We will also discuss sampling approaches, issues of validity, and ethical concerns. The course will consist of a series of short lectures, discussions of the readings and hands-on exercises. Students are required to attend the lectures, participate in the discussions and complete the exercises.

Literature

• John Lofland, David Snow, Leon Anderson and Lyn H. Lofland.  2006.  Analyzing Social Settings.  A Guide to Qualitative Observation and Analysis.  Belmont, CA: Thomson Wadsworth.  Chapters 1-5, 7, 9.

• Robert Weiss.  1994.  Learning from Strangers.  The Art and Method of Qualitative Interview Studies.  New York: the Free Press.  Chapters 1-4, 7 and appendices.

• Kathryn Edin and Laura Lein. 1997.  Making Ends Meet.  How Single Mothers Survive Welfare and Low-Wage Work. New York: Russell Sage Foundation.  Foreword.  Chapters 1, 2, 8, Appendix A