Learning-by-Doing: Teaching Qualitative Methods in DC

Abstract

Learning-by-doing presents an opportunity for political science departments to instruct undergraduate students in social science research methods. Conducting these trainings as short-term, high impact programs have the potential to make research and research methods accessible and appealing to students. Building these opportunities around major political events transforms these opportunities for learning further still, such as heightening student interest in research methods. Rooted in these considerations, we designed and implemented the Qualitative Methods and the 2017 Presidential Inauguration Research Program. The program was a condensed qualitative research methods training experience that incorporated field work, conducted in spring 2017. This article offers lessons for innovating on undergraduate methods training though experiential learning.