Rethinking digital research methods in teaching
How can digital research methods be taught in such a way that they are not only mastered technically, but also critically reflected upon? A new book chapter by Suay Özkula addresses this question and provides impetus for the further development of methodology in sociology.
In the article “Teaching digital research methods in sociology,” published in 2025 in the anthology Teaching Research Methods in Sociology (edited by L. Foster, W. Mason, and K. Nichols), Özkula demonstrates how digital methods can be meaningfully and contextually integrated into university teaching.
Technology alone is not enough
Digital methods have long been part of empirical research. However, teaching them requires more than just knowledge of the tools. This chapter argues for combining technical skills with theoretical classification, ethical reflection, and methodological criticism. Students should not only use digital data sources, but also question them.
This article is aimed at teachers and university developers who want to bring their teaching methods up to date. It combines didactic practice with conceptual classification and understands digital research skills as an integral part of academic education.
Further information about the anthology can be found here:
https://www.e-elgar.com/shop/gbp/teaching-research-methods-in-sociology-9781035320219.html
