module specification

SS7011 - Research Methods (2024/25)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2024/25
Module title Research Methods
Module level Masters (07)
Credit rating for module 20
School School of Social Sciences and Professions
Total study hours 200
 
100 hours Assessment Preparation / Delivery
64 hours Guided independent study
36 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
Coursework 50%   A 2000-word research report of an existing dataset
Coursework 50%   A 2500-word methodology proposal for a potential research project
Running in 2024/25

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)
Period Campus Day Time Module Leader
Spring semester North Week All day

Module summary

The module aims to:
1. Assist students in designing and conducting research for their thesis, and in
developing their skills of critical reflection and analysis.
2. Develop a competence in understanding the strengths and limitations of quantitative
and qualitative research.
3. Develop a competence in analysing quantitative and qualitative research data and
writing research reports.
4. To critically appraise quantitative and qualitative research produced by statutory
agencies and voluntary sector organisations in order to enhance their employment prospects.

Prior learning requirements

N/A

Syllabus

Research design (1,3 4-5)
Principles and methods of quantitative research (1, 3-4)
Principles and methods of qualitative research (1,3-4)
Quantitative data analysis using SPSS (2)
Qualitative data analysis using NVIVO (2)
Research ethics: reflexivity and safety (5)

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

This module is delivered through a blended learning module that will include one intensive three-day block, supported by three peer and tutor lead online seminars throughout the semester and additional individual tutorial times for each student

Students will be required to prepare for lectures by reading the core texts and complete online activities prior to the block teaching and seminar sessions including leading part of one of the seminars.

In addition to this, students are expected to engage in independent study to prepare for and write their assignments, though tutorial space will be made available to feedback on and assignment plans. Students are encouraged to develop case studies from their own profession which can be used within the seminars as the basis for discussion and peer review. The teaching methods will include group work, lectures, guest lectures, workshops, and appraisal of audio-visual material. Recommended reading will be available to support each session. Additional electronic material and useful websites will be made available via Weblearn

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

  1. Apply their understanding of research methodologies to their own research practice
  2. Competently use data analysis software that will support their data analysis at thesis state
  3. Critically evaluate examples of empirical research.
  4. Demonstrate an enhanced knowledge of a wide range of research concepts, terminology and methods; and an enhanced knowledge of the methodological literature.
  5. Have an understanding of ethical principles of social research.

Bibliography