The second day of the 1st Summer School “From Social Theories to Manageable Data: Building Hybrid Competencies (Social Science * Digital * Policy)” focused on research design, the development of research instruments, and practical aspects of conducting social sciences and humanities research.

As part of the module “Research Design Laboratory: From Questions and Hypotheses to Instruments,” participants explored the main types of research designs, including surveys, experiments, and mixed methods. They also examined approaches to formulating hypotheses, designing questionnaires, selecting measurement scales, constructing samples, and addressing issues of validity, reliability, and research ethics.

The day’s speakers included researchers from the Institute for Philosophy, Political Science and Religious Studies—Damira Sikhimbayeva, Nurken Aitymbetov, and Marlen Turysbek—who presented both theoretical and practical aspects of research design, as well as case studies from the Institute’s research projects.

In an online session, Shynar Tuleshova, Head of the Department of Demographic Research at the Center for Demographic Analysis and Forecasting, delivered a lecture titled “The Relationship Between Economic and Demographic Processes in Kazakhstan.”

Participants also attended a lecture by Yermek Toktarov, Deputy Director General for Strategic Development, entitled “Innovation and Translation: From Social Research to Product, Intellectual Property, and Commercialization,” which focused on the practical application of research findings.

The Summer School continues in accordance with its educational program, integrating contemporary research approaches, digital tools, and interdisciplinary practices.