Comparative analysis of the undergraduate political science research methodology course syllabi among Hong Kong universities

Although research methodology is a staple and essential requirement of many undergraduate political science programmes worldwide, there are still many intense and ongoing debates among teachers and students on the series of effective learning and teaching approaches and strategies for this subject matter that involve theoretical understanding, procedural knowledge, practical skills, and reflective mindsets. By undergoing a thematic analysis of the course syllabi of the undergraduate political science research methodology courses offered by seven publicly funded universities in Hong Kong, this study aims to first illustrate how individual teachers structure and sequence their courses, followed by highlighting the underlying educational implications. This qualitative study primarily focuses on seven distinct yet interrelated aspects of course design, namely course title, course description, intended learning outcomes, course topics and content, readings and references, assessment tasks, and course format. All these empirical findings can contribute to scholarship by offering greater clarity and consistency in understanding the learning and teaching of research methodology in the context of undergraduate political science education. These findings can also inform future practices in terms of course design, pedagogical best practices, lesson preparation, and assessment development among educators and practitioners.