SOC7023 - Practical Criminological Research

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the range of qualitative research techniques and a capacity for independently evaluating their respective strengths and weaknesses in addressing particular kinds of research question/s;
Critically analyse research-based concepts drawn from criminological and other related social science disciplines, demonstrating understanding of their distinctive epistemological status and contribution of these concepts to the knowledge in practice.
Critically analyse published social research, focusing on methodological dispositions, philosophical outlook and ethical frameworks.
Demonstrate critical understanding of the various qualitative forms of data analysis, recognising the potential offered by each for specific research projects.

Content:

This module explores the importance of social research, and aims examine how social data may be collected, displayed, analysed, and explained effectively.

This module will help student to build on their knowledge of research methods and further build on their skills and ability to conduct independent research. Once students have completed this module, they will be better prepared and equipped to use appropriate research methodologies to plan for and conduct their extended research projects.

Learning and Teaching Information:

The module delivery will utilise a range of learning and teaching methods including lectures, workshops, group work, group presentation and mini planning and conducting of pilot studies. The underpinning of the module delivery is an integrated programme and assessment experience.

The module teaching/learning methods will utilise a range of teaching techniques, including:

- Lectures
- Seminars
- Student workshops
- Audio/visual resources
- Enquiry-based learning (EBL) students work in groups to address real-life scenarios and apply prospective qualitative research methods to investigate those selected social issues/problems.

Lectures
Hours: 10 (1 hour X 10 weeks)
Intended Group Size: Cohort

Workshops
Hours: 15 (1.5 X10)
Intended Group Size: Cohort

Guided independent study
Hours: 275

Further details relating to assessment
The research portfolio will have multiple elements and consists of a detailed research plan on a self-selected criminological topic, a reflective essay on previous research experience and/or an extended literature review. Formative assessment within the module will be centred on the selection and production of relevant documentation on a case-by-case basis and focused. The assessment will expect to demonstrate a clear and coherent sound knowledge of understanding of the application of qualitative research methods and the methodological processes required to conduct qualitative research.

Assessment:

001 Research portfolio; 6,000 words; end of semester 1 100%

Fact File

Module Coordinator - Shaun McDaid
Level - 7
Credit Value - 30
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered - 7PGS1

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