Programme of Study Catalogue

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Conduct an appropriate analysis of a quantitative dataset.
Evaluate and appraise quantitative and qualitative methodologies drawing upon contemporary debates.
Evaluate the effectiveness of specific research methodology through analysis of a wide variety of peer reviewed journal studies.
Appraise debates around contemporary research methodology and around ethics and research.

Content:

This module is intended to help students develop their understanding of quantitative and qualitative research methods, with a view to developing their practical skills and critical understanding in advance of the Masters dissertation module. Students are introduced to a diverse range of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, developing practical data analysis skills, as well as engaging with contemporary, critical debates surrounding research methodologies and ethical considerations.

Learning and Teaching Information:

The module will be delivered using a mixture of face-to-face introductory lectures, workshops, and online learning tasks which will include the delivery of web-based seminars at key stages of the modular delivery. Student learning will be supported and evaluated through completion of interactive forums, web based seminars and individual and group tutorials.

Lectures and workshops
Hours: 2
Intended Group Size: Cohort

Online learning tasks
Hours: 50 (5h per week x 10 weeks)
Intended Group Size: 1

Online Seminars/web based seminars
Hours: 3
Intended Group size: 20

Individual tutorials
Hours: 1

Guided Independent Study
Hours: 144

Further details relating to assessment
For the first assessment, students will be provided with a quantitative dataset and will be required to design their own research question, analyse the data accordingly and appraise other articles in this area of research. For the second assessment, students will then critically appraise a qualitative article, engaging with debates around appropriate research methodology and ethics.

Assessment:

001 Quantitative analysis; 2,000 words; mid-semester 2 50%
002 Qualitative research critique; 2,000 words; end of semester 2 50%

Fact File

Module Coordinator - Kirstie Grace
Level - 7
Credit Value - 20
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered - 7PGS2