Wellesley College Courses on Qualitative Research Methods in Social Sciences
The courses listed below offer students an opportunity to develop skills necessary to work with faculty whose social science research employs qualitative methods, such as interviews and surveys.
Faculty: Professor Petra Rivera-Rideau, American Studies
Description: This course offers an introduction to the interdisciplinary field of Ethnic Studies. Ethnic Studies centers the theories, histories, and perspectives of Black, Indigenous, Latinx, and Asian American people in the United States, with particular attention to the study of comparative race and ethnic relations in the United States and its empire. We will explore key themes and concepts in Ethnic Studies such as imperialism and colonialism, social movements, migration, and intersectionality using analysis of popular culture, and historical and current events.
Prerequisite(s): None
Distribution(s): Social and Behavioral Analysis
Faculty: Professor Adam Van Arsdale, Anthropology
Description: This course is intended to provide a theoretical framework as to how anthropologists construct questions, design research strategies, and produce anthropological knowledge. Students will discuss and explore major framing questions for anthropological methods while pursuing an independent project of their choice. Working with a faculty advisor, students will engage in independent research, while using the class as a workshop and discussion environment to refine their project. Students will be exposed to issues of positionality, ethical obligations in research, mixed qualitative and quantitative methods, and writing for specific audiences. This course is required of all anthropology majors and will provide a bridge between introductory and advanced courses.
Prerequisite(s): Social and Behavioral Analysis Any introductory Anthropology course (ANTH 101, 102, or 103), or permission of the instructor
Distribution(s): Social and Behavioral Analysis
Faculty: Professor Jennie Pyers, Psychology
Description: An introduction to research methods appropriate to the study of human development. Individual and group projects. Laboratory. Observations at the Child Study Center required.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC205 and 207.
Distribution(s): Social and Behavioral Analysis
Faculty: Professor Julie Norem, Psychology
Description: An introduction to research methods appropriate to the study of personality psychology. Student projects investigate individual and group differences in personality traits, values, goals, and dimensions of self-concept. Laboratory.
Prerequisite(s): PSYC 205 and either PSYC 212 or PSYC 210.
Distribution(s): Social and Behavioral Analysis