This module will continue the three inter-related learning strategies for the programme. Three day-long workshops will consist of interactive presentations, discussion, and critical debate. Tutorials will allow discussion of the individual research students are undertaking to prepare their assignments. Independent study will be supported by access to on-line tutorials in research methods, and allow reading around selected topics, the development of individual responses to the reading and the preparation for the assessed report.

This module will provide a programme-wide introduction to masters level research methods and, as such, is core to the MA Ministry Development programme. The content introduces students to three blocks: (a) defining a research question/proposal (b) undertaking a literature review, (c) critical questions of research methodology. Within the methodology block there is an opportunity for the students to investigate a methodology relating to their specific award and professional interests. The module will also resource students with a practical understanding of ethical clearance requirements, on-line research systems and research recording tools.

The report will support students to evidence learning in the submission of:
a. A rationale for using research to enhance understanding of practice
b. A fully worked-up research proposal
c. A discussion of key literature sources relating to the research proposal
d. An evaluation of two contrasting research methodologies that could be used to investigate the research question.
[Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3 & 4]

Oasis College Library
On-line access to Staffordshire University Library and Athens Search Password
Access to ICT
Rooms with access for disabled students
The Blackboard virtual learning envirnoment will be available (where relevant) to support this module. Details will be supplied in the module handbook.

Bell, J. (2005) Doing Your Research Project: A guide for first time researchers in education, health and social science. Maidenhead: Open University Press.
Bryman, A. (2004) Social Research Methods. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
David, M. & Sutton, C. (2011) Social Research: An Introduction. London: Sage.
Fairbairn, J. and Winch, C. (2000) Reading, Writing and Reasoning. Buckingham: Open University Press.
Flick, U. (2011) Introducing Research Methodology: A beginner's guide to doing a research project. London: Sage.
Greener, I. (2011) Designing Social Research: A Guide for the Bewildered. London: Sage Publications.
Hennink, M et al (2011) Qualitative Research Methods. London: Sage.
Merrill, B. (2009) Using Biographical Methods in Social Research. London: Sage
Somekh, B. (2011) Theory and Methods in Social Research. London: Sage Publications.
Swinton, J. (2006) Practical Theology and Qualitative research. Canterbury: SCM
Van Der Van, J.A. & Scherer-Rath, M. (2004) Normativity and Empirical Research in Theology (Empirical Studies in Theology). Brill
Walliman, N. (2011) Your Research Project: Designing and Planning Your Work. London: Sage Publications.
Yin, Robert. K. (2008) Case Study Research: Design and Methods (Applied Social Research Methods). London: Sage.