POL 699 - Seminar

Course Objectives

The primary objective is to train students on thinking, developing and producing a thesis proposal as per the university thesis guidelines in addition to exposure to independent scientific thinking, formulating research questions / research questions / thesis, proper literature review and sound methodology. At the end of the term, students who have succeeded in this course should able to:

• Understand the structure of the thesis
• Demonstrate awareness of methodological and ethical issues in research
• Critically engage in formlating research questions
• Develop an essay using argument and with coherent.
• Learn the proper academic style of writing, and references citation.
• Provide relevant and constructive feedback on research plan and final thesis.
• Revise research proposal based on feedback from peers, instructor/advisor.
• Learn the structure of academic presentation and how to present a good research plan and study results.

About the Course

In this course, students learn how to develop a thesis proposal according to scientific research methods and statistics. This course will allow students to develop their skills in writing research design and conducting research in their respective fields. By the end of the semester, students will produce a thesis proposal, and will receive constructive feedback on their research theses. The seminar consists of weekly lectures, instructions and meetings for thesis completion, as well as debates, presentations and defense of research topics. Attention will be given to the development of research questions on the basis of debates on the current state of research, issues of coherence, format and style, ways of argumentation, and susbstative scholarly contribution.  Teaching methods involve lectures, group discussions, student presentations, exchange and discussion with both teacher and peer feedback. Teaching materials are lecture notes, IZU Thesis manuals, and relevant reading materials.