https://at-ceu.studyguide.timeedit.net/modules/POLS5229?type=COREThis is the course about how to systematically collect/generate data in the field, manage and analyze them. Students get familiar with principles and practices of doing fieldwork in general and are introduced to particularities of doing fieldwork in the difficult contexts of illiberal regimes, conflicts, global pandemics and other crises. The course covers most frequently used methods and sites of data collection in qualitative research (participant observation, interviews, focus groups, archival work, surveys, etc.). It provides the knowledge about methodological foundations and practical application of these methods in the field, including digital one. Students review best practices and elaborate don'ts in using one or another method of data collection. Finally, students learn how to manage collected data and about specifics of data collection and analysis in qualitative research as well as how different methods of data collection could be combined in one research design. Students collect the knowledge not only from the readings and professor's inputs but also from the practical experiences of fieldwork which the fieldwork-experienced guest speakers share with them. Furthermore, throughout the course students collect their own practical experiences. They do the ethical issues training (recommended by the CEU Ethical Research Board), draft a consent form, have a chance to discuss and get feedback on their own field research strategies and data management plans for their own research designs. Also, they participate in the interview lab - a practical team project that involves all components and stages of qualitative interviewing, management and analysis of the collected interview data as well as visual presentation of the project results. The course is relevant for those students who use qualitative and/or mixed-methods strategies.