Democracy Research Initiative (DRI) (Launching Fall '24)

  • Explore key issues related to democracy in the Americas through original research designed to make an impact

Vertically Integrated Projects

The Democracy Research Initiative (DRI) uses a research-based approach to explore key issues related to democracy in the Americas. Team members will be able to participate in one of several research projects related to democracy, including voting rights, social justice, race and equity, gender, reproductive rights, climate change, social movements, civic engagement, the rule of law, the politics of historical memory, citizenship and belonging, and AI, technology and media, among others.

In this project-based course, students work on interdisciplinary research teams using quantitative and qualitative methods to generate greater understanding of these issues. The goal is to develop original research in collaborative teams that then informs publications and policy papers, as well as develop creative and digital modalities for presenting findings to make an impact.

As the project develops, the team may develop partnerships with other projects at NYU and external universities. 

Methods & Technologies

  • Research design
  • Qualitative methods - interviews and participant-observation
  • Survey design
  • Survey implementation
  • Data Analysis
  • Project Management
  • Data Visualization
  • Writing for Policy Impact

Areas of Interest

  • Politics
  • Sociology
  • Anthropology
  • Social and Cultural Analysis
  • History
  • Journalism

Partner 

Faculty Advisor 

Apply to Democracy Research Initiative