The UP Institute of Islamic Studies (UP IIS) recently held a two-day lecture series on Quantitative Research in the Social Sciences and Discourse Analysis, conducted on November 9 and November 16, 2024, respectively via Zoom. Organized through the Materials and Methods 1 class, the event aimed to enhance the research skills of Master of Arts in Islamic Studies students. The lecture series served as a capacity-building initiative, equipping students with essential knowledge and practical skills to conduct quantitative research and apply discourse analysis effectively. The lecture series involved two faculty members from the College of Social Science and Philosophy, UP Diliman.
The first lecture, delivered by Asst. Prof. Erwin Rafael from the Department of Sociology, emphasized the importance of quantitative research in understanding social phenomena. Prof. Rafael focused on salient aspects of the survey method, a widely-used data gathering technique. He also highlighted the critical role of theoretical frameworks, data analysis techniques, and ethical research practices such as informed consent and maintaining participant anonymity. These concepts were contextualized within the fields of sociology and Islamic studies.
In the second lecture, Dr. Perlita M. Frago-Marasigan from the Department of Political Science delivered an in-depth discussion on discourse analysis. She emphasized its core protocols and procedures, with a particular focus on argumentative discourse analysis. Dr. Frago-Marasigan highlighted the importance of understanding discourse analysis and its application to various types of texts, including spoken, written, and visual media. She also addressed the methodological constraints that shape the interpretation of discourse data and the role of argumentation in societal practices. Her lecture provided insights into how discourse analysis can be used to examine narratives within Islamic studies and other social issues critically.
The lectures are part of a series aligned with the Internal Quality Resilience Agenda (IQRA)-Academic Research and Utilization for Graduate Advancement (ARUGA) student mentoring program launched in 2023. The program aims to improve students’ academic and research performance while ensuring timely and effective engagement with the Islamic Studies curriculum.
By organizing this initiative, UP IIS is committed to fostering a strong research culture among its students, contributing to their academic growth and the advancement of Islamic studies in the Philippines.
