Using digital research methods to study International Organizations - Einzelansicht

In this course students will deepen their knowledge on international organizations (IOs) and gain practical experience in applying digital research methods.

As a foundation for the practical part of the course, we will start by discussing specific elements related to the structure and governance of IOs. Topics that will be addressed include: the role of the UN Secretary-General and executive heads of IOs; the funding of IOs; the role of treaty secretariats; and cooperation between IOs and non-governmental organizations. 

The second course block will address the specificities of digital research. We will discuss literature on issues such as digital diplomacy and organizational branding. Students will then be introduced to a number of research tools during hands on exercises, for example focussing on the analysis of organizational websites and social media data.

Through this research-based learning, students will develop their analytical and presentation skills. 

• Students should be familiar with general International Relations concepts.
• Considering that the course will be held in English (reading English texts, using English tools, and writing the term paper in English) students need good language skills to be able to actively participate in the class.
• As this course will feature a number of hands on in-class exercises, students need a laptop to participate. Students who do not own a laptop but are very keen on following the course are requested to reach out to the lecturer ahead of the first class.
• Please also note that most tools are designed for Windows operating systems. Compativility with other operating systems cannot be guaranteed.

Studienleistung: 

Reading the literature, active and regular participation in class, participating in the in-class exercises, preparation and presentation of an academic poster.

Prüfungsleistung:

Term paper.