The Methodology Tutor: An Introduction to New Social Science Research Methods

Abstract

Computer scientists studying the automation of analytical techniques based on human cognitive processes have in recent years developed several innovative methodologies well suited to social science research. Rule-based analytical tools, databases that return information that is "similar" to that requested, inductive classification of examples, and self-sorting bibliographies are among the potential new tools that could greatly expand the analytical powers of social science researchers. Unfortunately, most social science graduates still remam largely unaware of their potential. This article describes software designed to introduce these methods and show how they can be applied to social science problems.¹

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