INTS 475-02, International Studies Senior Seminar, Fall 2010

Abstract

This course is designed to guide International Studies seniors through the process of writing a major research paper. The seminar provides you with the opportunity to conduct research on a topic of interest. Over the course of the semester, you will gain an appreciation for the challenges and rewards of doing social science research and be exposed to the various stages involved in preparing a high-quality paper. These include developing a research question, acquainting yourself with the scholarly literature related to your topic, formulating hypotheses, and collecting and analyzing data, among other steps. Because research and writing are activities that benefit greatly from peer review and feedback, students should be prepared to participate actively every week. All members of the class are expected to discuss their own projects and the work of their peers. Think of the seminar as a forum in which you will enhance your ability to effectively communicate your ideas and to give (and receive) constructive criticism. Ideally, your experiences in this course will build on the many skills that you have developed both as an IS major and as a Rhodes undergraduate.