This module incorporates several inter-related learning strategies. The interactive learning groups will provide lectures and seminars involving a combination of group activities, student led work, simulations, skills practice, discussion etc. The independent study provides opportunity for reading, library based and online research. The learning in the professional practice work place will help develop professional skills.

Interactive whiteboard and data projectors
On-site library and internet access to Staffordshire University Library
Access to internet connected PCs
Appropriately equipped and accessible lecture rooms
Practice based: appropriately equipped office/study space, admin support, meeting rooms, art/craft resources, volunteer team

Bell J (2005) Doing Your Research Project (4th Edition) Buckingham, Open University Press
Denscombe M (2007) The Good Research Guide for small-scale social research projects (3rd Edition)
Buckingham, Open University Press
Robson C (2002) Real World Research (2nd Edition) Oxford, Wiley Blackwell

This module will ensure that students understand the ethics of research and a selection of different methods for research projects. It will enable them to consider potential research methods for their dissertation/ professional practice evaluation. It will give them the opportunity to trial methods either in their placement or in the centre.

Design and conduct a pilot study for your dissertation / professional practice evaluation, or very small scale piece of desk-based research related to youth and community work and applied theology. This must include:

a) Completing the required ethical clearance procedure – this is a mandatory aspect of the assessment process that requires an approved form is included as an appendix in the final report. An approved form must be approved prior to undertaking your pilot project and failure to include an approved form will result in an automatic fail of the assessment report.

b) A 3000 word report on the research including a focused research question, justification of the research methods selected, presentation of the research process and pilot study, and an evaluation of selected research methods.

The report will address all Learning Outcomes 1-6

1. DEMONSTRATE UNDERSTANDING WHEN CRITICALLY EVALUATING DIFFERENT RESEARCH TECHNIQUES.

Enquiry

2. UNDERSTAND APPROACHES TO LITERATURE REVIEWS AND CRITICALLY ANALYSE RELEVANT LITERATURE.

Analysis
Learning

3. DEPLOY AND DEVELOP INTERPRETATIVE SKILLS.

Analysis

4. DEVELOP ABILITY TO APPLY A RESEARCH APPROACH IN THE FIELD INCLUDING ETHICAL DIMENSIONS.

Application

5. ABILITY TO SUPPORT OTHERS WORK WITH OTHERS IN SMALL SCALE RESEARCH TASKS.

Reflection

6. APPLY LEARNED METHODS AND TECHNIQUES FOR THE ORGANISATION OF INFORMATION, PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND INTERPRETATION SKILLS.