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A key element of most political science programs is a research methods class. While the study of research methods is often feared by students for the quantitative element, early awareness of and exposure to the basics of a scientifi c study of politics can help assuage these concerns and better prepare students for the rigor of their curriculum. There is no better place to accomplish this and give students a preview of what is to come than in an introductory political science course. Though they come in many forms, introductory political science classes are designed to give students a broad overview of the fi eld and its major topics of study. This is also the perfect place to introduce majors to some of the key elements of research methods. Consider the scientifi c method alone. Too often, students argue positions in classes that have little support or evidence. The scientifi c method requires us to think in a scientifi c and systematic way, marshalling evidence and considering arguments from a more neutral, third party perspective. Being exposed to this way of thinking in an introductory course means that students can better assess the arguments presented in their major courses and respond to them in a thoughtful manner. Further, students may be less skittish in approaching their actual research methods course by being exposed to basic ideas early on in their college careers. Certainly, research methods is worthy of further focus given its role in enhancing the robustness of political science, but the basic skills imparted can be built on by students looking for jobs post-graduation. Students should understand that in learning statistics and/or how to operate a statistical package like Stata or SPSS, they can add to their attractiveness as job candidates. Students can apply these skills in jobs including business analysis, economic coordination, marketing, and even journalism and the media. Including a discussion of research methods in an introductory political science course sets students up for success in later classes and can introduce key concepts before students are scared away by the use of statistics. Topics such as the scientifi c method, the basic logics of qualitative and quantitative methods, and the benefi ts and drawbacks of each can all be covered easily in an introductory manner that previews what students can expect. This discussion can also emphasize the importance of such skills for future career options in political science and beyond. Doing so sets political science majors up for success while in college and beyond. Wendy Whitman Cobb is affi liated with the US Air Force's School of Advanced Air and Space Studies. Her views are her own and do not necessarily refl ect the views of the Department of Defense or any of its components. Political Science Today Wendy Whitman Cobb See page 10 for details. CONNECTING RESEARCH METHODS TO CAREER SUCCESS Renowned author Wendy Whitman Cobb offers tips for introducing research methods skills that will help boost your students' political science careers. Introduction to Political Science 9

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