1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the range of mechanisms used to engage with quantitative and qualitative research methods in postgraduate study.

2. Use appropriate communication at an advanced level to find information and to explain, debate, and present highly complex arguments, proposals and ideas.

3. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the ethical concerns around conducting and making use of research results and outcomes.

4. Demonstrate initiative and personal responsibility in identifying and integrating relevant professional literature to enhance and support advanced level study.

One summative assessment consisting of a research proposal (4,000 words) assessing learning outcomes 1 to 4.

Students will write about how research is conducted in their field of study, showing their knowledge of different research methods.

You are required to show an informed, and at the same time critical understanding, of the fundamental academic and legal principles which apply to post-graduate research within the chosen area, including:
- undertaking a range of advanced research activity related to law and related disciplines;
- developing advanced level skills in writing, summarising and critical assessment;
- reaching a critical understanding of research strategies through the comparison, evaluation and justification of quantitative and qualitative research approaches;
- appropriate management of research ethics.

You are required to show an informed, and at the same time critical understanding, of the fundamental academic and legal principles which apply to post-graduate research within the chosen area, including:
- undertaking a range of advanced research activity related to law and related disciplines;
- developing advanced level skills in writing, summarising and critical assessment;
- reaching a critical understanding of research strategies through the comparison, evaluation and justification of quantitative and qualitative research approaches;
- appropriate management of research ethics.

The module uses a blended learning approach to delivery and independent study. Content will be delivered using a combination of some face-to-face sessions combined with technology enhanced learning which will involve the use of the Blackboard virtual learning environment (VLE). There will be a selection of learning activities which may include use of: online materials and guided reading, podcasts, use of video and recording clips, online discussion boards and blogs.
The early stage of the module will use a range of activities to ensure that students understand the technology used and will also facilitate online socialisation through appropriate guidance and induction exercises. The module will split the content into appropriate subject learning units and a range of content will be organised in the VLE using a common structure of content folders. Students will engage with the content asynchronously at a time and place which suits their learning and external commitments. Students will be supported with clear guidance as to how to use the material and its relevance to the intensive face-to-face sessions.

There will also be the opportunity for students to consult with tutors on a face-to-face basis, via telephone or an online platform such as Microsoft Teams.

Tom Clark and others, Bryman’s Social Research Methods (6th edn, OUP 2021)
James Holland and Julian Webb, Learning Legal Rules (10th edn, OUP 2019)
Wayne C. Booth and others, The Craft of Research (4th edn, University of Chicago Press 2016)
W. Lawrence Neuman, Social Research Methods: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches (7th edn, Pearson 2013)
Mike McConville and Wing Hong Chui (eds), Research Methods for Law (2nd edn, Edinburgh University Press 2017)

Legal databases:
- Westlaw and Staffordshire university online library