module specification

SC5061 - Analysing Crime Narratives (2024/25)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2024/25
Module title Analysing Crime Narratives
Module level Intermediate (05)
Credit rating for module 15
School School of Social Sciences and Professions
Total study hours 150
 
24 hours Assessment Preparation / Delivery
90 hours Guided independent study
36 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
Coursework 30%   1000 words Transcript of an Interview and preliminary comments
Coursework 70%   1500 word Qualitative Analysis Report
Running in 2024/25

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)		 No instances running in the year

Module summary

The module explores qualitative methods which are deployed as a way of understanding criminals and the phenomenon of crime in more flexible ways than those permitted by the collation of crime statistics. The utility and justification of qualitative research methodologies is critically considered and you have the opportunity to develop a variety of practical research skills, from conducting a qualitative interview to analysing qualitative data using NVivo and writing research reports. This module aims to develop your knowledge of qualitative research methods and ability to apply them in practice to enhance your future employment opportunities.

Prior learning requirements

Available for Study Abroad? NO

Syllabus

This module will focus on the following key subjects:

● The relevance of qualitative research in criminology.
● The role of theory in qualitative research.
● Reliability, validity and reflexivity in qualitative research.
● Introduction to NVivo.
● Interpreting Qualitative Research: Grounded Theory and Document and Policy Analysis.
● Using NVivo for qualitative data analysis.
● Interpreting results of analysis and writing a research report.

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

Each teaching session runs through a three hour long workshop in a computer lab. Tutorial support is offered throughout the module by way of tutor availability during office hours, discussions and email. In workshops you will be actively engaged in practical activities related to qualitative data analysis with support from your tutor.

This module will be supported with relevant WebLearn pages where all lecture and workshop notes, relevant literature, NVivo manuals, and other sources will be available. All sessions will be recorded with Panopto and will be always available to you.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this module you will:

1. Develop an informed grasp of the strengths and limitations of qualitative research.

2. Develop ability to identify and consider the ethical issues which may arise in qualitative research.

3. Develop your skill in conducting qualitative interviews.

4. Develop your competence in using NVivo for qualitative data analysis.

5. Develop your skill in writing reports based on qualitative data analysis.

Assessment strategy

There are two summative assessments:

Transcript of an interview and preliminary comments – Due in week 7

Qualitative analysis report – Due week 14

Bibliography