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Qualitative Research Methods
Spring 2026
Course Description
The objectives of this course are to introduce students to research methods that they can apply to their own storytelling capacities. Qualitative Research Methods (hereafter QRM) explores qualitative methodologies practiced by historians, sociologists, and anthropologists. QRM is specifically designed to build on those foundations by giving learners the tools to develop from being the consumers of knowledge to becoming producers. To that end, new skills are required. Specifically, QRM builds the following research capabilities:
- How to analyze different kinds of sources.
- Creating oral history sources, including how to secure permissions, consider ethical and legal responsibilities, and best practices for interviewing.
- Creating visual history sources
- Using electronic devices (especially smart phones) as research tools.
- Creating archives.
- How to design a research project.
- Enlisting feedback from peers.
Campuses Offering the Course
Bard College
Instructors
- Victor Apryshchenko, Bard College