In today’s world of data-driven decisions and evidence-based insights, the ability to conduct quality research is an invaluable skill. Whether you’re a student pursuing sociology, a public health researcher, a data analyst, or an aspiring academic, understanding research techniques and statistical tools is essential. To address this growing demand, SWAYAM—India’s premier online education platform—offers an exceptional course titled “Research Techniques, Statistics and Computer Applications”, developed by Prof. Mohammad Akram from Aligarh Muslim University (AMU).
This 12-week course is a golden opportunity for students and professionals to deepen their understanding of social science research methods, statistical analysis, and digital tools used in modern-day investigations. Let’s explore why this course deserves a spot on your academic journey and how it can empower you to make meaningful contributions to the world of research.
📌 Why This Course Matters in Today’s World
In the 21st century, information is abundant—but not all information is reliable. Making sense of social problems, designing policies, or even understanding human behavior requires a scientific and systematic approach. That’s where research comes into play.
This course doesn’t just teach “how to do research”; it explores why research is important, what philosophies guide scientific inquiry, and how to collect and interpret data meaningfully. It blends theoretical knowledge with practical tools and introduces learners to the latest technological applications in social research.
Whether you are working on your final-year project, preparing for competitive exams, or planning a doctoral dissertation, this course equips you with the foundational skills to approach research systematically.
📚 Course Details at a Glance
- Course Name: Research Techniques, Statistics and Computer Applications
- Platform: SWAYAM (swayam.gov.in)
- Instructor: Prof. Mohammad Akram, Department of Sociology, AMU
- Duration: 12 weeks
- Start Date: July 21, 2025
- End Date: October 10, 2025
- Enrollment Deadline: July 28, 2025
- Exam Date: October 24, 2025
- Credits: 3 (UGC approved)
- Category: Sociology
- Level: Undergraduate/Postgraduate
🎓 Who Should Enroll?
The course is designed for a wide audience. It is especially useful for:
- Undergraduate and postgraduate students of Sociology, Political Science, Psychology, Public Administration, Anthropology, or Law.
- Aspiring researchers or MPhil/PhD candidates planning to write research proposals.
- Civil services aspirants looking to enhance their understanding of social statistics and survey research.
- Teachers and academicians involved in empirical research or field studies.
- Professionals in NGOs, think tanks, media, and research consultancies.
No prior expertise in statistics or programming is required. The content is beginner-friendly yet intellectually stimulating, making it perfect for anyone interested in learning the scientific method and applying it to real-world problems.
🧠 What You Will Learn
The course is divided into 12 weeks, with each week focusing on a specific theme:
Week 1-2: Understanding Social Research
- Philosophy of science: positivism, interpretivism, realism
- Ethics in research
- Difference between qualitative and quantitative research
Week 3-4: Designing a Research Study
- Research problem, objectives, hypothesis formulation
- Exploratory, descriptive, and explanatory research
- Reliability and validity of instruments
Week 5-6: Methods of Data Collection
- Surveys, interviews, observations, focus group discussions
- Questionnaire design and measurement scales
- Triangulation of data sources
Week 7-8: Sampling and Survey Techniques
- Probability and non-probability sampling
- Sample size estimation
- Fieldwork management and challenges
Week 9-10: Introduction to Statistics
- Measures of central tendency: mean, median, mode
- Standard deviation, skewness, kurtosis
- Correlation, chi-square tests, and significance levels
Week 11-12: Computer Applications and ICT
- Use of Microsoft Excel and SPSS in data analysis
- Introduction to ICT tools for data collection
- Data visualization and report writing
This progressive structure ensures learners build their understanding week by week, from basic concepts to advanced applications.
💼 How It Can Help in Career Growth
This course offers more than just academic knowledge—it builds real-world skills:
- Research design and proposal writing: Useful for academic or NGO research projects.
- Statistical analysis and data interpretation: In-demand skills for data-driven industries.
- Digital literacy and use of software: A major plus in today’s job market.
- Writing and presentation of findings: Useful for report writing, publishing, or public speaking.
Upon successful completion, participants receive a UGC-approved e-certificate, jointly signed by AMU and SWAYAM, adding credibility to their academic or professional portfolio.
👨🏫 About the Instructor: Prof. Mohammad Akram
Prof. Akram is a renowned figure in the Indian academic sphere, particularly in the field of Sociology of Health, Social Policy, and Research Methodology. With over 25 years of teaching and research experience, he brings a depth of knowledge and clarity that is rare in online education.
He has published several books, delivered invited lectures across prestigious universities, and contributed to numerous national and international projects. His teaching style is accessible, well-structured, and backed by real-world examples—making complex topics easier to grasp for students.
🧾 Certification and Assessment
To earn a certificate, participants must meet the following criteria:
- Assignments (25%): Weekly MCQs and short tasks (minimum score: 10/25)
- Proctored Exam (75%): Conducted at designated centers (minimum score: 30/75)
The final certificate will be issued only to those who meet both criteria. This certificate is especially valuable as it includes logos from SWAYAM, AMU, and Ministry of Education, Government of India.
💡 Why Choose SWAYAM?
SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active–Learning for Young Aspiring Minds) is a government initiative aimed at providing high-quality education to every citizen of India—free of cost. The platform is backed by UGC, AICTE, NCERT, and other central academic institutions.
The only cost involved is a nominal fee of ₹1000 for the final exam, making it accessible to students from all financial backgrounds.
Additionally, SWAYAM courses are recognized for credit transfer under UGC guidelines, which means you can actually earn academic credits while learning at your convenience.
📢 Final Thoughts: Who Should Not Miss This?
If you are serious about developing your research skills, or if you’re aiming for a career in academics, development work, or social research, then this course is not just helpful—it’s essential.
In a world where “knowledge is power,” this course equips you with the tools to generate knowledge scientifically. So, whether you’re crafting your first research paper or leading a field study for a national project, this course will be your guiding light.
🔗 How to Enroll
Click the link below to enroll in the course before July 28, 2025:
👉 Enroll Now on SWAYAM
Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from one of India’s finest sociology educators. Take the next step in your academic or professional journey—enroll today!
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