Lecture on Research Methodology by Professor Dr. Syed RifaatHussain

On Friday April 12th, Professor Dr Syed RifaatHussain was invited to the department as an eminent speaker for a special lecture on Research Methodology and Skills. Dr. RifaatHussain, at present the chairperson Department of Governance & Public Policy has been a former chair of DS Department and a professor of International Relations, QAU.

During his talk before a jam packed auditorium, Dr.Hussain highlighted the foundational aspects of research methodology, the various sources of knowledge through which a research seeks and inquires about different social constructs and variables. Dwelling in detail about basic beliefs, common sense, intuition and logic as few of the sources of knowledge, he talked at length about why Research is needed and why it must be approached through a scientific lens. He also examined in detail the arguments for and against social scientific research and its fundamental rationale. Elaborating upon the goals of scientific research, he also dwelt on the types of research and its various techniques, the benefits, limitations or possible flaws in any of the given techniques. Lastly he highlighted the state of social research in Pakistan and the possible difficulties and impediments faced by a researcher. He also covered what research design is, how data can be accessed, gathered and effectively utilized.

The session concluded over a highly engaging Q&A session, where students and visitors from DSS and outside asked questions pertaining to research designs, data mining, research techniques and approaches. The challenges and difficulties faced by young scholars when conducting research. The session was moderated by DrShabanaFayyaz and it concluded over a vote of thanks, followed by group photograph.