In this seminar, Discourse Network Analysis (DNA) will be taught. DNA is a methodology that combines Social Network Analysis (SNA) with content or discourse analysis. After an introduction to the basics of SNA, we will also learn about different theories that are compatible with this method. This seminar will guide students through the design of an empirical study that uses DNA. We will start by finding an interesting topic in the field of current policy issues, formulating a precise research question, and creating an appropriate research design. Students will also learn the entire process of generating data. More specific examples of tasks include how to import text data and categorize the actors' statements, how to create a codebook, and how to export the data to the network visualization program Visone. Applying Visone, we can visualize the data and analyze the graphs using SNA measures such as different centrality measures or subgroup analysis. Finally, students will conduct their own research and present it at the final conference of the seminar. The seminar will end with a term paper where participants will discuss their own research projects in depth.

Assessment

Term paper, oral presentation and active participation