The modern world relies on evidence-based decision making. This course is designed to guide students through the process of conducting empirical research and producing research output. Building upon the theory and applied skills learnt in the 200-level Quantitative Research Methods and 300-level Data Analytics courses, this seminar course will help students design a quantitative research study and produce a well-written empirical paper. Some applied empirical methods such as Quasi-Experimental Designs, Difference-in-Differences and Regression Discontinuity Design will also be discussed through case studies of their application in published journal articles. Students will also learn about literature reviews, survey design, data processing, paper presentations and referee reports. This course together with Qualitative Research Methods, Quantitative Research Methods, Data Analytics and Advanced Qualitative Research Methods will form an ideal platform for students who want to go into research and development-oriented private or public institutions, or those who want to pursue graduate studies that demand sound research understanding and application.
