CYP7005 - Research Methods

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

1 Critically examine research literature and scholarship in the substantive field in order to situate a planned research approach in relation to the existing field of enquiry.

2 Critically evaluate the particular methodological, ethical and practical issues involved in addressing a particular research idea.

3 Formulate and justify a research approach for undertaking a specific piece of social research.

Content:

The curriculum is designed with a comprehensive approach to social research, beginning with the crucial step of identifying and meticulously developing a focus for the research. It encompasses a broad spectrum of data collection techniques, including both qualitative and quantitative methods. The course also introduces students to mixed methods approaches, which are particularly useful when both qualitative and quantitative data are needed to address research questions comprehensively.

Further, the program delves into various methodologies for analyzing data. This includes phenomenological and hermeneutic approaches, which are vital for interpreting qualitative data, as well as the application of descriptive statistics for analyzing quantitative data. Ethical considerations form a cornerstone of the curriculum, with a strong emphasis on understanding the principles of conducting ethical research within social contexts. This includes navigating the process of applying for and obtaining ethical clearance for research projects.

Additionally, the course is structured to guide students in formulating and justifying their research approach. This involves a thoughtful consideration of the diverse epistemological and methodological traditions that underlie social research, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the field. The curriculum also facilitates the undertaking of work-based studies and local evaluations, providing students with the opportunity to apply their research skills in practical, real-world settings. This holistic approach prepares students for the complexities and ethical considerations of conducting social research, equipping them with the necessary tools and knowledge to pursue meaningful inquiry within their chosen fields.

Learning and Teaching Information:

The CYP7005 Research Methods module is intricately designed to equip students with a deep understanding of research methodologies, aligning with Leeds Trinity University's Learning, Teaching, and Academic Experience Strategy (LTAE 2022-2026). This course aims to foster critical thinking and analytical skills necessary for engaging with existing research literature and scholarship within the substantive field. Students will learn to critically position their research approach within the broader landscape of inquiry, ensuring their work contributes meaningfully to the academic community.

Upon successful completion of this module, students will be proficient in evaluating the methodological, ethical, and practical challenges associated with formulating a research idea. They will be able to articulate and defend a coherent research strategy for undertaking a specific piece of social research, taking into account the complexities and ethical considerations inherent in social science investigations.

The module content provides a thorough exploration of qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques, introducing students to the advantages of mixed methods approaches for a comprehensive understanding of research questions. Students will delve into phenomenological and hermeneutic methodologies for qualitative data interpretation and learn the application of descriptive statistics for quantitative analysis. Ethical research practices are emphasized, guiding students through the ethical clearance process and highlighting the importance of ethical considerations in social research. By examining various epistemological and methodological traditions, students will gain the ability to formulate and justify their research approach, equipped with the knowledge to conduct work-based studies and local evaluations. This holistic curriculum not only prepares students for the theoretical aspects of social research but also provides practical experiences to apply research skills in real-world settings, empowering them to conduct meaningful inquiries within their chosen fields.

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities
Hours: 25
Intended Group Size: Cohort

Guided independent study
Hours: 125

Further details relating to assessment

Students are referred to Module Handbook for full details.

All students will produce a project proposal which will include a section that contextualises their project which also justifies their project aims and methods, a plan on how they intend on carrying out their project, and a section which covers ethical considerations to make during the implementation phase. This is intended to prepare them to conduct research, work-based learning or a systematic literature review. All students will be required to consider ethical implications of research. However, only those carrying out empirical research outside of their day-to-day place of work will need to report for ethical approval through application to the ethics committee. Work-based projects are understood to be a part of the students daily job, and students are required to carry out their project in relationship with their manager and in line with their company's protocols. Students need to demonstrate that they have informed consent from their place of work in order to carry out work-based projects. This can be in the form of clear email communication evidencing informed consent and demonstrating this project forms part of their daily job.

Assessment:

001 Project Proposal; 2500 word equivalent; 100%; Mid to End Term 2 100%

Fact File

Module Coordinator - PRS_CODE=
Level - 7
Credit Value - 15
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered - 7PGYL

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