This module introduces students to the principal research methods in the social sciences and provides opportunities to design and implement a modest research investigation, including analysis of data and reporting of findings. A critical approach to methodology is developed. Students will also develop communication, IT and number skills to support assignment work and to prepare for the transition to undergraduate study.

SEMESTER ONE: RESEARCH SKILLS: 75%
IT: 100%
NUMERACY: 75%
COMMUNICATION: 50%
SEMESTER TWO: RESEARCH SKILLS: 25%
NUMERACY: 25%
COMMUNICATION: 50%
Research Skills : Coursework Assignment, 1,500 words maximum to include assessment of Communication and IT (ability to access data from electronic sources and to use IT to present data effectively): 50% [Learning Outcomes 1-4]
Communications: Oral presentation with appropriate visual aid: 10% [Learning Outcome 3]
Numeracy: 2 assignments to include open book class test: 40% [Learning Outcome 5]

Communication and IT are also assessed in the core module assignments

Research Skills includes some formal lectures, but is predominantly activity-based, with opportunity for individual skill development and support. The Key Skills are mainly activity and resource-based , although Communications will include some whole-class discussion and student presentation.

The Earl Street Library
Study Skills Texts available in The Link Centre
The Internet

Coolican, H (1994) Research Methods and Statistics in Psychology
Langley, P (1987) Doing Social Research
Redman, P. et al. (1998) Good Essay Writing: A Social Sciences Guide