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The aim of the course is to acquire skills that allow the reflexive use of different methodological strategies in online research and the awareness of its strengths and limits. The course addresses current debates regarding online inquiry and a variety of online research tools ranging from archives and statistical data, to online survey research, to ethnographic techniques or developing an online questionnaire. Ethical concerns are another major topic.

Addressed Themes: CP1. Multi-disciplinary approach to social research online. Ways of knowing and the e-Research on the Web. CP2. Research design in mediated and virtual environments. CP3. New reality, new methods? New methodological approaches and techniques using ICTs. CP4. Entering the virtual field: ethnographic research, interviewing and Focus groups on the Web. CP5. Articulation between online research methods and other research resources: Statistics and databases. CP6. Quantitative analysis online: possibilities and challenges. Sampling and data gathering. Introduction to data analysis tools. CP7. Reliability and validity of data obtained online compared to offline data gathering. CP8. Use of mixed methods. Sources of information and secondary analysis of data gathered online. Worldwide research communities. CP9. Network analysis, Webmetrics and the geography of the Internet. CP10. Ethical principles on online research.

1) Discussion of required readings in class; 2) Execution of two essays: - one individual based on the required reading of a paper - individual or workgroup essay, of a more deepened nature, following one of the given options: a) Paper; b) Thematic essay; c) Research Project; d) Analysis of documents, case-study, etc.; The final grades will be calculated based on: Individual work 45% Workgroup essay 45% Participation in class: 10%

The pedagogical Framework of the course encompasses theoretical courses (T) and theoretic/practical (TP). The courses of a more expositive character will be complemented with the active learning and participation of students, both based on teacher's support and students own work commitment. The theoretic/practical courses will cover the discussion of case studies and readings, the resolution of problems and the elaboration of practical exercises.