B3239 - LABORATORIO DI METODOLOGIE E STRUMENTI PER L'ANALISI DEI FENOMENI SOCIO-ECONOMICI E TERRITORIALI

Learning outcomes

The course aims to analyze and explore research methodologies and tools applicable to the study of socioeconomic and spatial phenomena. The final exam consists of actual research constructed and conducted in small groups under the direct supervision of the instructor. At the end of the course the student: knows and can apply the methodological knowledge (theoretical and empirical) necessary for the study of the above phenomena.

Course contents

Qualitative methodology (interviews, focus groups, participatory observations)

Quantitative methodology (secondary analysis, survey, big data and territory etc.)

Creative methodologies for studying socio-economic and spatial phenomena (visual analysis, participatory and collaborative research etc.).

For all these methodologies and tools, we will study both the field research and the analysis part.

Teaching methods

The classes of this course are organized according to thematic blocks. However, it should be noted that some themes, as well as their order, may be subject to changes by the professor, in order to adapt the course as much as possible to the profile of the class, the pedagogical needs etc.

Most of the lessons have a seminar form and students’ participation remains key. They will be able to intervene with questions for clarification but also with examples and pertinent comments that can boost individual and collective learning.

The debate and discussion must always be carried out with the most respect for everyone (students, teacher, external guests).

Assessment methods

Please, choose a socio-territorial phenomenon (local labor market, poverty and urban marginality, housing distress, cities and consumption, integration of foreigners into the urban fabric.

After a literature and document search, prepare a field research design/protocol, defining the following elements: general and specific research objectives, research questions, identification of the most suitable tools to answer your objectives and research questions.

This preparatory work is worth 40% of the test.

After this preparatory work, each research team will have to carry out a simulation of this research: making contact with research participants, carrying out the field research (survey, interviews, etc.). Of course since this is a pedagogical exercise, the number of interviews, questionnaires, etc. may be limited.

Teaching tools

Lectures; discussion seminars; seminars with guest experts on specific topics and methodologies (qualitative and quantitative data analysis programs, visual analysis, GPS).

Office hours

See the website of Marco Alberio