Location:

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Summer

Program Overview

Program Description:

Empirical legal questions are increasingly pressing for society and academics alike, but European law students generally receive little training in empirical methods and most social scientists are unversed in law. This course seeks to redress the imbalance via a thorough introduction to the basics of social science research. Topics include problem specification, literature analysis, hypothesis identification, research design, ethics, sampling, measurement strategies, statistics, and reporting.

Special guest lectures from the Netherlands Institute for the Study of Crime and Law Enforcement (NSCR) and VU Amsterdam.

• Formulate empirical research questions and hypotheses; • Distinguish between quantitative and qualitative research methods; • Choose a specific research design; • Draw a representative sample; • Choose a measurement method; • Design and conduct an interview; • Know the basics of data analysis, including descriptive and inferential statistics; • Distinguish between the strengths and weaknesses of different samples, measurement methods, and analysis techniques; • Present empirical research findings

Setting Description:

With over 180 unique nationalities, Amsterdam is a melting pot of cultures and embraces different cultures, religions, and lifestyles. 165 canals criss-cross the entire city, giving it its nickname ‘Venice of the North.’ The city also features more bikes than inhabitants! With a bustling creative industry, Amsterdam offers plenty of cultural activities and events throughout the year. In Amsterdam you can benefit from the advantages of a big city with enough quiet spots to kick back and relax.

Cost:

1000 EUR. The tuition fee includes: • Airport pick-up service • Welcome goodie bag • Orientation programme • Course excursions • On-site support • Emergency assistance • Transcript of records after completion of the course

Additional Program Information

Scholarships:

Yes

Scholarships Description:

The VU Amsterdam Summer School offers ten scholarships that cover the full tuition and housing fees of one course. Information about how to apply for the scholarship will be posted on the VU Amsterdam Summer School website.