The purpose of this module is to provide an opportunity for participants to engage in a small scale independent research. The content of the research will be determined by the selection of the topic to be studied and the framing of the hypothesis/research question. This module will allow the students to build on and develop their research skills, to implement different research methodology and to undertake small scale research utilising appropriate academic conventions.

Either, completion of the following modules:
Young Children's Development: Advanced Perspectives (30 credits)
Leadership and Teams (30 credits)

Or
For students on the BA Early Childhood Studies (full time route):
Successful completion of Certificate level and Diploma level of the programme

Multi media classroom resources, learning resource centre, internet, journals and access to tutor.

Bell, J., (2010), Doing Your Research Project, Maidenhead, OUP Cohen, L., Manion, L. and Morrison, K., (2011), Research Methods in Education, (7th ed) Oxford, Routledge
Mukherji, P.andAlbon, D., (2009), Research Methods in Early Childhood:An Introductory Guide, GB, Sage
Roberts-Holmes, G., (2011), Doing Your Early Years Research Project: A Step by Step Guide (2nded), London, Paul Chapman Publishing

80% Project,
20% Research Presentation.

The learning strategies will require students to commit 300 learning hours. Lectures provide students with a broad theoretical overview and the conceptual frameworks which underpin the writing of research. Taught sessions will focus on how to analyse data, both quantitative and qualitative and how to record their findings. Tutorials will focus on the collation and analysis of relevant material, engaging in critical reflection and the use of appropriate referencing and bibliography. Tutorials will be arranged at times most convenient to the tutor and student.

281 hours of independent study will require students to read and think about each step of the research process as it applies to their chosen line of enquiry.

The teaching strategies will employ a range of methods, including lecture, seminar and electronic learning packages. Students will be expected to be self directed, developing and using primary and secondary research methods to obtain and analyse data.

1. DEMONSTRATE SYSTEMATIC UNDERSTANDING AND KNOWLEDGE OF A CHOSEN AREA OF STUDY WITHIN THE EDUCATION OR EARLY CHILDHOOD STUDIES SECTOR.
Communication
Knowledge & Understanding
Learning

2. IDENTIFY AND CRITICALLY DISCUSS RESEARCH MATERIAL RELEVANT TO THE CHOSEN AREA OF STUDY.
Analysis
Communication

3. DEMONSTRATE SELF-DIRECTED RESEARCH SKILLS OF PLANNING, DESIGN, ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION IN A SMALL SCALE, ETHICAL RESEARCH PROJECT SHOWING AN AWARENESS OF THE UNCERTAINTY, AMBIGUITY AND LIMITS OF KNOWLEDGE.
Application
Enquiry
Problem Solving
Reflection