Political Economy Research Assistant Experience Quiz

Political Economy and Article Research in Political Science

Participating in political science research, especially political economy, is more than just learning about theories and models. It's a hands-on experience that fosters critical thinking, collaboration, and valuable skills.

Political Economy Overview

Political economy combines economics with political science, analyzing how governments, institutions, and policies influence economic outcomes. This interdisciplinary field examines the political aspects of economic issues, such as trade, taxation, and regulation.

Research Assistant Experience

As a research assistant, you'll work closely with faculty members, learning by doing and gaining valuable experience. Your tasks could include:

• Collecting and organizing data
• Conducting literature reviews
• Analyzing data using statistical software
• Preparing research presentations

Benefits of Being a Research Assistant

1. Learning by doing: You'll work on real projects with your professors, gaining practical experience and developing critical thinking skills.
2. Networking and mentorship: Working with professors and graduate students can lead to valuable connections and long-term mentorship opportunities.
3. Skill development: You'll improve your analytical, communication, and data-management skills, which are highly sought after in many fields.
4. Greater access to opportunities: Your experience as a research assistant can open doors to internships, scholarships, and other competitive opportunities.

Research Articles in Political Science

Writing research articles is a fundamental part of the research process. Here's a look at what goes into publishing an article in political science:

1. Selecting a topic: Choose a subject that aligns with your research interests and objectives.
2. Conducting research: Collect data, review relevant literature, and analyze your findings.
3. Developing a thesis statement: Summarize your research question and main argument.
4. Structuring the article: Follow a standard format, such as introduction, literature review, methods, results, and conclusion.
5. Writing the article: Clearly and concisely convey your research findings and argue your case.
6. Getting feedback: Share your article with your professors, peers, or colleagues for feedback and improvement.
7. Submitting your article: Select an appropriate journal and follow their submission guidelines.

Resources

• Student Experience: Xander E. Laughlin's account of being a research assistant demonstrates the value of this opportunity.
• Insights from Research Assistants: A study from a minority-serving institution provides insights into the benefits of undergraduate research.
• Guide to Political Science Research: The University of Pennsylvania's guide offers tips for getting involved in research, from participating in ongoing projects to independent study.
• Improving Content Analysis Tools: Cambridge University Press article discusses the role of undergraduate research assistants in political science research.

In today's research-driven world, being a political science research assistant can be a rewarding and educational experience. You'll develop valuable skills, network with mentors, and contribute to the field's knowledge base.