Class Central is learner-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Developing a research question in International Relations

The Open University via OpenLearn

Go to class Write review

Details

Go to class

Provider

OpenLearn
Pricing

Free Certificate
Languages

English
Certificate

Certificate Available
Effort

3 hours
Sessions

Self-Paced
Level

Advanced

Found in

This free course, taken from the MA in International Relations (Part 2), explores why research questions matter and what makes a good research question. Research questions are vital for any academic inquiry, yet writing a good one is not easy. A well-designed question enables you to clearly define and communicate a focused area of research in a way that is manageable within the scope of a research project. Through this course, you will learn how to recognise and produce a good research question.

Syllabus

1 Masterclass research questions in International Relations
2 Positivist and interpretivist approaches
2.1 Positivism and interpretivism revisited
3 Types of research questions
4 Descriptive versus analytical questions
5 Developing a good research question

Reviews

5.0 rating, based on 1 Class Central review

4.1 rating at OpenLearn based on 9 ratings

Start your review of Developing a research question in International Relations

Enrique Enriquez @EEnriquez
26

The course on developing research questions in International Relations provided a clear, structured, and engaging learning experience. Offered free of charge, it fully delivered on the promises outlined in its description, including comprehensive co…

The course on developing research questions in International Relations provided a clear, structured, and engaging learning experience. Offered free of charge, it fully delivered on the promises outlined in its description, including comprehensive coverage of positivist and interpretivist approaches, practical activities, and examples that supported conceptual understanding. The stated duration was accurate, allowing for efficient time management, and the certificate of completion was available on demand as advertised, adding value for learners seeking credentialed recognition. The course content was well-organized and academically sound, making it suitable for both newcomers and those refining their research skills. Overall, the experience was highly positive—accessible, professionally presented, and intellectually rewarding. I would recommend this course to anyone looking to strengthen their foundation in International Relations research methodology.