This module will introduce students to the theoretical underpinnings of two qualitative research approaches. Students will explore the rationale for each approach and develop appropriate research questions. Students will collect their own qualitative data and practice using qualitative analysis techniques to analyse this data. Sessions will explore for example, the origins of qualitative psychology, psychology as a ‘science’, the development of subjectivist approaches and different epistemological standpoints.

Summative assessment
Coursework: A 2500 word structured qualitative research report which assesses all module learning outcomes (LO 1-5)

Formative assessment
Students will receive regular feedback from tutors and peers through regular workshops. One workshop will be dedicated to discussion of the assessment and assessment planning support

60 hours of scheduled teaching and learning activity (e.g., lectures, workshops, assessment preparation)

Lectures will introduce students to key theories and approaches which underpin qualitative research methods.

Students will have the opportunity to consolidate understanding of lecture content within practical workshop/seminar sessions. These sessions will involve conducting research and analysing data using qualitative techniques. In some instances, material may also be delivered through other media such as video clips, blackboard and technical demonstrations.

There will be additional drop-in sessions which will provide an opportunity for students to ask further questions and have these answered by a tutor and/or fellow students.

1. Critically review literature to build a rationale for a qualitative research question Knowledge and Understanding, Application, Enquiry

2. Justify chosen qualitative data collection and analysis approaches Application, Enquiry, Problem solving

3. Analyse data using a chosen data analysis approach Analysis

4. Communicate findings clearly in a qualitative academic research report Communication, Learning, Reflection, Psychology Research Skills

Brooks, J., & King, N. (2017). Applied qualitative research in psychology. Macmillan International Higher Education.
Braun and Clarke (2013) Successful Qualitative Research: A Practical Guide for Beginners
Brysbaert, M., & Rastle, K. (2009). Historical and conceptual issues in psychology. Pearson Education.
Willig, C. (2013). Introducing qualitative research in psychology (3rd ed.). Open University Press.

Library access to relevant textbooks, journals, ebooks
Internet access to relevant websites and online databases

This module will introduce you to the theoretical underpinnings of qualitative research approaches and provide you with experience of conducting and analysing qualitative research.